Shepherd’s story was brought to the world by William Still, the author of the book The Underground Rail Road. Still’s own parents had escaped slavery, and he became an ardent abolitionist, risking his life to help freedom-seekers in the years leading up to the Civil War. Still kept careful, secret records of the numerous departures of fugitives who went through his Philadelphia "station" — records that he shared only after slavery had ended. His book contains probably the best evidence we have of the activities of the Underground Railroad, enumerating the freedom-seekers who utilized it, including where they came from, how they got away, and the families they brought with them or left behind.

Among America's most intrepid noteworthy figures were the individuals who, against the odds and in violation of the law, escaped subjugation and advanced toward opportunity. A few, such as Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, became acclaimed activists or authors. Yet, most slaves who got away left little trace on the verifiable record. With their masters still trying to recapture them, they had every reason to keep their activities secret. Harriet Shephard and her companions were among them — until they reached Canada, their freedom could have been taken away. However, with stories like these , it is hard to say they did not have an impact; Harriet shepherd was one that pierced hearts and reminded us of the struggles of slavery.

– Kelly Atud

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