The Little Blue River, located in southeastern Nebraska, played a significant role in the history of the Underground Railroad during the mid-19th century. As one of the primary tributaries of the Kansas River, the Little Blue River formed a critical part of the escape route for slaves fleeing from the slave-holding states of Missouri and Kentucky to the free states of the North. This network of secret routes and safe houses, known as the Underground Railroad, was used by hundreds of African American slaves who sought freedom in the years leading up to the American Civil War.

One of the most prominent stops along the Little Blue River was the town of Fairbury, Nebraska, which is located approximately 55 miles south of Lincoln. The town's unique geography made it an ideal place for fugitive slaves to cross the river and continue their journey northward. Local abolitionists, such as William McCue, a prominent businessman and farmer, provided aid to the fugitive slaves by offering food, shelter, and guidance as they traveled through the area.

The Little Blue River was also home to several other notable sites that served as key stops along the Underground Railroad. One such site is the Rockford Station, located near the present-day town of Rockford, Nebraska. This station was operated by the prominent abolitionist and conductor, Samuel Fulton, who provided assistance to fugitive slaves as they traveled northward towards freedom. Another notable site is the Myers House, located in the town of Byron, Nebraska, which was owned by Jesse Myers, a well-known abolitionist who provided shelter and aid to fugitive slaves.

The significance of the Little Blue River in the history of the Underground Railroad cannot be overstated. The river and its surrounding communities played a crucial role in providing a safe and clandestine route for hundreds of African American slaves to escape the bonds of slavery and achieve freedom in the North. Today, many of the historic sites along the Little Blue River have been preserved and offer a glimpse into the region's rich and complex history.

Despite the significance of the Little Blue River in the history of the Underground Railroad, the region's role in the abolitionist movement remains relatively underappreciated. However, in recent years, efforts have been made to raise awareness about the region's rich history, including the establishment of the Little Blue River State Recreation Area, which commemorates the river's importance in the Underground Railroad.

The Little Blue River's role in the Underground Railroad network is a testament to the courage and determination of both the fugitive slaves and the abolitionists who worked tirelessly to end the institution of slavery in the United States. Today, as travelers journey through Nebraska, they can still visit many of the historic sites that played a critical role in this significant chapter in American history.

As the United States continues to grapple with issues of racial inequality and social justice, the history of the Underground Railroad and the Little Blue River serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the abolitionist movement and the ongoing struggle for human freedom and dignity.

The legacy of the Little Blue River in the history of the Underground Railroad is a rich and complex one that offers a deeper understanding of the region's history and its connection to the broader struggle for human freedom and equality.