A PBS documentary airing February 6, 2012, chronicles the life and legacy of a man known in his time as the “Father of the Underground Railroad.”

To learn more about the film, we spoke to executive producer Gordon Henderson. Henderson began his career as a journalist and parliamentary correspondent, and is the founder and president of 90th Parallel Productions. History-enthusiasts may recognize his name as the series producer for the CBC’s Canada: A People’s History.

William Still (c. 1821–1902) was an abolitionist and civil rights activist who helped countless black slaves find freedom in Canada. Perhaps even more important, were the diligent records he kept of the people he helped along the way. In 1872, Still compiled the biographical details, personal narratives, and letters of over 600 fugitive slaves and published The Underground Railroad Records. This work became both a powerful anti-slavery testament and an invaluable historical document.

The one hour documentary, Underground Railroad: The William Still Story, is produced by 90th Parallel Productions in association with Rodgers Broadcasting and WNED-TV Buffalo/Toronto. The film features the talented Dion Johnstone in the role of William Still, and also relies on historical consultants and primary documents to bring life to the people and stories contained within Still’s papers. In telling about the struggles and achievements of America’s fugitive slaves, Underground Railroad remembers the important role that Canada played in helping them find freedom.

Other online extensions:

• See a brief timeline of the movement to abolish slavery in Canada.
• Learn more about Canada's position during the American Civil War.
• Read William Still's obituary in the New York Times.
• Read or download William Still's book The Underground Railroad: A Record of Facts through The Project Gutenberg.