The 1950s were the golden age of the American road trip. Construction began on the interstate highway system, and Jack Kerouac’s On The Road inspired thousands of young people to slam on the gas pedal. But of course freedom of movement didn’t apply to all Americans. Jim Crow was the law in the South. Traveling While Black wasn’t easy.

Today on the podcast we’re bringing you a story about how Black travelers made an underground road map so they could get around safely. It’s told by our friends and fellow Radiotopians at 99% Invisible.

Radio Diaries is part of PRX’s Radiotopia Network.