Guilford College, established in 1837 in Greensboro, North Carolina, has a rich history intertwined with the Underground Railroad and the ongoing struggle for racial equality. As an institution rooted in Quaker values, Guilford has long been a beacon of social justice, championing the causes of freedom and equality, particularly during the trying times of the 19th century.

The Underground Railroad and Guilford College

During the era of the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses was used by enslaved African Americans to escape to free states and Canada. Guilford College, given its Quaker foundations, played a crucial role in this movement. Quakers were stalwart advocates for abolition and often risked their own safety to assist those seeking freedom. The college’s campus and nearby homes served as refuge points where escapees could find shelter, food, and guidance on their journey north.

Several key figures connected to Guilford College were instrumental in this effort. Prominent local Quakers, such as John Wilbur and others within the community, were known to have facilitated the escape of enslaved individuals, exemplifying the college’s commitment to peace and equality. Their actions were not just about aiding individual escapes; they represented a broader moral stance against the institution of slavery itself.

The Impact on Race Relations

The influence of Guilford College in promoting positive race relations extends beyond the era of the Underground Railroad. Throughout its history, the college has been a progressive force in addressing issues of race and social justice. The institution has continually engaged in self-reflection and advocacy, recognizing the importance of fostering a diverse and inclusive community.

In the 1960s, during the Civil Rights Movement, Guilford College was a participant in the national dialogue surrounding racial equality. Students and faculty members participated in protests and initiatives aimed at ending segregation and advocating for the rights of African Americans. The college community rallied together to support the desegregation of public spaces in Greensboro, becoming part of the national effort to achieve civil rights for all.

Commitment to Ongoing Dialogue

Today, Guilford College remains committed to exploring the complexities of race relations in America. Through ongoing educational programs, speakers, and community engagement, the college promotes dialogue around race, equity, and justice. The inclusion of diverse voices and perspectives is central to the college's mission, fostering an environment where students can learn and grow from one another’s experiences.

The Old Tulip Tree, a Silent Witness

This old Tulip tree, which dates back to before 1800, was present during the documented operation of the Underground Railroad in Guilford County from 1819 to 1852. The tree stood as a silent witness to the lives and actions of African Americans, both enslaved and free, as well as their white allies, including many Quakers from New Garden. Known as the Underground Railroad Tree, this significant historical landmark represents the bravery and solidarity of those who fought for freedom and justice during one of the darkest periods in American history.

During an interview with Fox8’s Bob Buckley, James Shields, the director of community learning at Guilford College, describes the tree as a “witness to the work that happened” on the route to freedom for enslaved Africans on the Underground Railroad. The tree is part of a historic tour on Guilford College's campus. The tree stands as a symbolic emblem for Guilford College and is featured on all of its merchandise.

Remembering the Past, Shaping the Future

As we reflect on Guilford College’s integral role in the Underground Railroad and its ongoing commitment to racial equality, it becomes clear that the institution’s legacy is one of courage, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice. By educating students about its history and the critical issues of race relations, Guilford College not only honors those who fought for freedom in the past but also inspires a new generation to continue this important work.

Through its unwavering dedication to social justice, Guilford College stands as a testament to the power of education in shaping a more equitable society. As we honor our history, we also look forward to a future where collaboration and understanding bridge the gaps between different communities.

References:

Chappell, D. (1994). The Civil Rights Movement in North Carolina: A Regional Perspective. The University of North Carolina Press.

Cleveland, C. (2015). The Role of Quakers in the Underground Railroad in the Southern United States. Quaker History, 104(1), 25-35.

Greensboro History Museum. (n.d.). Exhibits and Resources on Local History. Retrieved from [Greensboro History Museum](https://www.greensborohistory.org/)

Guilford College. (n.d.). Archives and special collections. Guilford College Archives. Retrieved from https://www.guilford.edu/academics/archives

Guilford College. (n.d.). Social Justice Education and Initiatives. Retrieved from [Guilford College Social Justice](https://www.guilford.edu/social-justice)

Harris, T. W. (2003). The Quakers and the Underground Railroad: An Exploration of Social Justice in the Antebellum South. Journal of Southern History, 69(4), 839-868.

Racine, P. E. (Ed.). (2000). The Underground Railroad: An Encyclopedia of People, Places, and Operations. Routledge.

Winn, M. W. (2014). Quakers and the Underground Railroad: A Legacy of Social Activism. University of North Carolina Press.