Today, March 10th, is Harriet Tubman Day.
Harriet Tubman was born into slavery in Dorchester County, MD. Her birth date is unknown although believed to be around 1822. She was one of nine children born between 1808 and 1832 to enslaved parents. Her mother, Harriet “Rit” Green, was owned by Mary Pattison Brodess. Her father, Ben Ross, who was owned by Anthony Thompson. She died on March 10, 1913.
As an escaped slaves she continued to return to slave states on thirteen missions to rescue approximately seventy enslaved families and friends. During the civil war she worked for the union army to rescue more slaves. She has become an icon of American courage and freedom.
The holiday was approved by congress in 1990.
On Saturday March 7, 2020 the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center located in Dorchester County held their annual celebration for Harriet Tubman. The center has many exhibits that feature information about Tubman’s childhood and young adulthood, living and laboring under slavery. (see photos below)
Although I have been planning to visit the Visitor Center since its opening, Saturday was the first time I went. And I have to say I was blown away with the displays and information. When I arrived it was already busy with visitors. When I left the parking area was nearly full. All ages were in attendance and it was good to see families with young children there.
I will certainly be going back.
The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center begins its fourth year of operation today. Since opening they have hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors from 70 countries and territories and all 50 states.
The facility and park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and houses an exhibit hall, immersive displays, a museum store and an information desk.