Stories, Events and Art Honor Tubman at Her Namesake Park
Beginning at 10 a.m., the park’s expert staff and special guests will lead hourly programs to honor the life and legacy of Maryland native Harriet Tubman and the struggle for freedom that she embodied.
“Symbolism in Harriet; Symbolism in Me” begins at 10 a.m. The entire park, beginning with the life-sized bust of Harriet Tubman, was designed with meaning at every turn. Visitors can create their own piece of art while learning about the hidden symbolism of the park and visitors center.
“Behind the Scenes of Harriet Tubman: Soldier of Freedom” begins at 11 a.m. Actor B. Cherie Patterson will share her preparation process to become Harriet Tubman in the upcoming orientation film “Harriet Tubman: Soldier of Freedom.”
At noon in the research library, a ranger will share stories of Minty — Harriet Tubman’s childhood name — during her youth and time on the Underground Railroad.
At 1 p.m., writer and producer Rona Kobell and Smithville native Keith Cornish will show their film “Smithville,” a story of this small town, and will discuss the importance of community preservation.
At 2 p.m., visitors can learn how to play the board game Mancala, an ancient game of strategy that takes a minute to learn and a lifetime to master.
The celebration will conclude with a 3 p.m. program, “The View North,” featuring architectural firm GWWO Inc.’s story-based design approach to the Visitor Center.
The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center, which enters its third year of operation on March 10, has hosted hundreds of thousands of visitors from 70 countries and territories and all 50 states. This state-of-the-art, green facility is managed in partnership with the National Park Service.
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.
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~ Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center