What are some secret codes used during the underground railroad?

The simplest use of codes on the UGRR (underground railroad) was the use of railroad terms while speaking of runaway slaves. For example, the Word, "conductors" reffered to people who lead slaves to safety. Safe places and homes where fugitives could stay and eat were know as "stations." The owners of these homes were known as "station masters." The escaping slaves on the UGRR were known as passengers, baggage, or parcels, like on a real train. Grown slaves were known as large parcels, and children were known as small parcels. America's first railroads were introduced around the 1830's, and this is when these terms were introduced. The "underground" part was added due to the secrecy of the work.

Songs were also used as secret codes on the UGRR. These songs were sung among slaves as a way of communication and siganling to eachother. Different songs ment different things. The song, "Follow the Drinking Gourd," reffered to a cluster of stars that helped slaves point out and follow the North Star. Conductors had "all-clear" and other types of songs to signal to their passengers. People listening in to these songs would not know the meaning behind them.

People used lanterns, and whistles to signal to slaves as well.