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Des Plaines History Center Book Club: Online Event

Overground Railroad by Candacy Taylor

A staff member will lead a book discussion on Overground Railroad : the Green Book and the roots of Black travel in America by Candacy Taylor. Books are available at the 3rd floor info desk in the public library approximately 60 days in advance.

Registration is required for this Zoom virtual program. You can click on the green button to register for this event using your email address, and a Zoom link will be sent to you approximately 24 hours before the program begins.

Overground Railroad : the Green Book and the roots of Black travel in America by Candacy Taylor

The first book to explore the historical role and residual impact of the Green Book, a travel guide for black motorists. Published from 1936 to 1966, the Green Book was hailed as the "black travel guide to America." At that time, it was very dangerous and difficult for African-Americans to travel because black travelers couldn't eat, sleep, or buy gas at most white-owned businesses. The Green Book listed hotels, restaurants, gas stations, and other businesses that were safe for black travelers. It was a resourceful and innovative solution to a horrific problem. It took courage to be listed in the Green Book, and 'Overground Railroad' celebrates the stories of those who put their names in the book and stood up against segregation. It shows the history of the Green Book, how we arrived at our present historical moment, and how far we still have to go when it comes to race relations in America.

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