Unveiling Minnesota’s Hidden Role in the Underground Railroad: Karen Sieber’s Groundbreaking Discovery
On Thursday, historian Karen Sieber will present her fascinating findings about Minnesota’s overlooked role in the Underground Railroad during the mid-1800s. For years, it was believed that Minnesota played a minimal part in this network, serving primarily as a refuge for enslaved Black Americans escaping the South. However, Sieber’s recent discoveries have revealed a far more active and significant contribution to the fight against slavery in the region. Her research sheds light on the unexpected presence of a major figure in the Underground Railroad, Moses Dickson, who operated in territorial St. Paul during the 1850s. This revelation challenges previous assumptions and expands our understanding of Minnesota’s involvement in this critical chapter of American history.
Moses Dickson, a prominent Black abolitionist, was a key player in the Underground Railroad, leading two secret societies dedicated to organizing both free and enslaved individuals across the United States. Historically, Dickson was believed to have been active in cities along the Mississippi River, with his work centered further south. However, Sieber’s meticulous research has uncovered evidence that Dickson was, in fact, living and working in St. Paul during the territorial era of Minnesota. Disguised as a barber—a common profession for those involved in the Underground Railroad—Dickson was able to operate covertly, aiding enslaved individuals in their escape to freedom. Before becoming a barber, Dickson worked as a steward on steamboats, a position that likely provided him with the connections and knowledge necessary to facilitate his abolitionist work.
Sieber’s discovery of newspapers from the time, referencing Dickson’s activities in St. Paul, suggests that his network stretched far into the North, where his efforts were desperately needed. Many people in the North, including Minnesotans, may have assumed that once enslaved individuals crossed into free states, they were safe. But the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 changed everything, allowing slave catchers to pursue escaped individuals even in free territories. This harsh reality made Minnesota, with its location far from the South, an important but risky destination for those seeking freedom. Sieber’s research highlights the dangers faced by escaped slaves and the courageous individuals like Dickson who risked their lives to help them. The sheriff of the time was particularly vigilant in capturing fugitives, adding another layer of complexity to the Underground Railroad’s operations in the region.
Sieber’s presentation will delve into the routes taken by enslaved individuals to reach Minnesota and dispel common myths about the Underground Railroad. Many people today have a romanticized view of the network, imagining it as a well-organized system with clear routes and safe havens. However, the reality was far more clandestine and perilous. Sieber’s findings will provide a more accurate understanding of how enslaved individuals navigated the treacherous path to freedom and how Minnesota played a pivotal role in their journeys. By sharing her research, Sieber aims to correct the historical narrative and give Minnesota the recognition it deserves for its contributions to the fight against slavery.
The presentation will take place on Thursday night at the History Center of Olmsted County in Rochester, Minnesota. Tickets for the event are $5 for non-members, and attendees also have the option to join via Zoom for the same price. The program will run from 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., offering a unique opportunity for history enthusiasts and the general public to learn about this lesser-known chapter of Minnesota’s past. Sieber’s work not only honors the bravery of individuals like Moses Dickson but also underscores the importance of uncovering and preserving the stories of those who fought for freedom and equality.
This event is a testament to the ongoing effort to uncover and celebrate the hidden histories that shape our understanding of America’s past. By shedding light on Minnesota’s role in the Underground Railroad, Sieber’s research reminds us that the fight for freedom and justice was a national effort, with contributions from individuals and communities in every corner of the country. As we continue to learn more about our collective history, we honor the legacy of those who paved the way for a more equitable society and inspire future generations to strive for justice and equality.
