In the much anticipated PBS series 'Slavery In America', there's reference to a children's book; "Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt, by by Deborah Hopkinson". This is a work of fiction about a slave girl who makes a quilt whose design incorporates a coded map for escaping slaves. I think this illustrated book is primarily for second graders.

There's controversy in the academic community whether quilts were specifically used for signaling and guiding escaping slaves. No evidence has come from the books or letters of former slaves, abolitionists, or paddy rollers. There is the telling by a woman, who sold trinkets and curios to tourists, that this story of the quilts was passed down in her family.

No quilt scholar or historian has produced or presented any evidence to support the freedom quilt theory. In fact, there are many arguments that point to its implausibility.

To read more on this controversy - and get a lesson on research and analysis - please check out this website: http://www.hartcottagequilts.com/railroad.htm

So if it's fiction, why all the fuss?

Teachers will have to solve a dilemma within their lesson plan. The first child that asks if the story is true has to be told that it isn't. At least, the part about the Freedom Quilt. But the other stuff….

If the lesson plan is about the Underground Railroad, are there not other age appropriate books (non-fiction) that tell a more accurate and honest story? Why do the folks at PBS choose "Sweet Clara..."?

Our children need to be nurtured and taught the truth about our young country. They need to have a healthy respect for our educational institutions and forums like Public Television. They must not be lied to.
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MK, I don't think I've said anything different from the other posts in this thread.

THE PREPONDERANCE OF NO EVIDENCE & NO CITATIONS SUGGESTS THAT THE QUILT CODE IS NOT REAL.

Don't get discouraged by what might seem a contradictory stance by professionals.
Just step up your game, do your research, and challenge them with the evidence you find.
Challenge your teachers and counselors.
Don't give up and tell us how your high school project turns out!

Peace,
"Guided by the Ancestors"