Garrett, Thomas, 1789–1871, American abolitionist, b. Upper Darby, Pa. A Quaker, he joined the Pennsylvania Abolition Society in 1818. At Wilmington, Del., where he became a hardware merchant and toolmaker, he made his home a station on the Underground Railroad , helping numerous slaves to freedom. He was convicted in 1848 and used up all of his resources to pay a fine imposed on him. Friends helped him rebuild his position, and he continued to aid slaves.