--FOLLOW THE NORTH STAR

   In 1849, at  about the age of 27, Minty/Harriet decided to escape for a third time . (Two previous attempts with two brothers  were unsuccessful. ) She soon after set off on her own. She talked about two rights : "There was one of two things I have a right to--- liberty or death; if I can not have one, I would have the other." In this song, her father  sings an inspirational song as he says good-bye to her.  In fact, her father did give her guidance prior to her 1849 escape. There were some abolitionists who set up "safe houses" where those "stealing away" could spend the day and journey by night. It is said that they  would follow the north star and the  "drinking gourd"--the Big Dipper --which pointed to the North Star.  
  It is thought that some songs and secret signals might have been used on the Underground Railroad (UGRR), though proof of this is sketchy. Songs about the North Star and the drinking gourd became part of the enslave people's culture--whether fact or fiction.  Lanterns or candles in a window signified a  safe house.  The extent to which enslaved escapees used safe houses is undocumented.  Conductors probably invented passwords.  It is said that some symbols were painted on trees along a UGRR route.  There might have been quilts  designed with secret instructions,even maps of routes..(though this is debated... it is part of the legend in at least one South Carolina family, and the subject of a book called, Hidden In Plain View) . Oftentimes, "enslaved runaways" just left on their own with no help at all.  Some historians believe that the role of abolitionists helping enslaved people escape has been overstated.

Instrumental 

 Lyrics

Follow the North Star, to where it will lead.
Steal away quickly, We wish you God speed.
And look in your heart Cause it can’t steer you wrong.
Your spirit supports building courage that’s strong.

Some good folks will help you to go on your way,
Getting closer to freedom, as each night follows day.
Look deep in your heart, Your faith is there…
Keep moving dear Minty, with dreams and a prayer.

Always have hope, don’t be afraid,
Move forward on your journey,
A plan along ago made.
The Lord will go with you, you won’t be alone.
A new life is waiting, the best that you’ve known.

So then
    follow the North Star, that shines in the sky.
Guiding you onward as we bid you good-bye.
And look in your heart, it won’t steer you wrong.
Your spirit will help you build courage that’s strong.

Your life will be better, much better by far…
If you look in your heart, And follow the star. 

Click on the notation below for the full notated score, transcribed from audio

by Dylan Roberts. 

Improvisation by Bernie Katzman