Railroad Travel

The first book to explore the historical role and residual impact of the Green Book, a travel guide for Black motorists.

The matter-of-fact descriptive title of this interesting little volume on railroading in the pre-Civil War South does not do justice to Alvarez's coverage of the subject. Along with his full account of trains and train accommodations, he manages to encompass a number of social, political, and even ideological subjects.

Overground Railroad chronicles the history of the Green Book, which was published from 1936 to 1966. For years, it was dangerous for African Americans to travel in the United States. Because of segregation, Black travelers couldn't eat, sleep, or even get gas at most white-owned businesses. The Green Book listed hotels, restaurants, stores, gas stations, and other businesses that were safe for Black travelers. It took courage to be listed in it, and the stories from those who took a stand against racial segregation are recorded and celebrated.

In 1879, due to its central location in the center of the country, Aberdeen became the hub of the Milwalkee Railroad. Patricia Lawrence is exploring Aberdeen with railroad men who lived some of that history.