The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park & Visitor Center (Stop #13 along the Tubman Byway) hosts a special Emancipation Celebration from 9am to 5pm on Saturday, September 15.  The event honors the day — September 17, 1849 — when Harriet Tubman first attempted to liberate herself from the bonds of slavery. In recognition of her courage and strength the Sept. 15 day of events focuses on Tubman’s strength, courage and the importance of freedom. The park is open from 9am-5pm.  The event is free of charge.

The day’s events include:

Tubman Memorial Dedication
Join us in honoring individuals who worked tirelessly to promote Harriet Tubman’s legacy, which led to the establishment of this park.
Time: 9 to 10 a.m.
Location: Legacy Garden

Meet Harriet Tubman
Re-enactor Millicent Sparks performs her interpretation of Tubman and her monumental life. Build a personal connection with the lady of honor!
Time: 10 to 11 a.m.
Location: Pavilion

Fighting for Freedom: Lewis Hayden and the Underground Railroad
Enjoy the premier of the National Park Service Underground Railroad Network to Freedom program movie with Diane Miller, program manager. Time: 11 a.m. to noon
Location: Visitor Center theater

Meet the Scales & Tales Bald Eagle
The Bald Eagle is a symbol of freedom in the United States. Join a Ranger and learn about the majestic bald eagle.
Time: 1 to 2 p.m.
Location: Pavilion

A Viewing of Carry Me Home
Carry Me Home is a 20-minute film that recounts Harriet Tubman’s final passage on the Underground Railroad in the winter of 1860. A ranger will introduce and conclude the film.
Time: 2 to 3 p.m.
Location: Visitor Center theater

Freedom Papers: Documents That Helped Win the War Against Slavery
Anthony Cohen of HISTORIO will present original 19th century newspapers, abolitionist tracts, and runaway slave notices that were used in shaping abolitionist movements. Participants will be able to “touch the past” in this hands-on history program.
Times: 3 to 4 p.m.
Location: Pavilion

Ongoing Activities:

  • Junior Ranger Activity Booklet: Complete the activities using the exhibits, take the Junior Ranger pledge and receive a Junior Ranger patch.
  • Park Quest: Work with your team to build a deeper connection to Harriet Tubman’s life and legacy, then take your own journey to freedom.
  • Ranger Crafts: Make a flat ranger to accompany you on your journey to freedom and decorate your own ranger campaign hat. In the multipurpose room from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Research Library: Further your understanding of freedom fighters, American slavery, and nature through literature and reflection, open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center is located at 4068 Golden Hill Rd, Church Creek, Maryland 21622. For more info, contact 410-221-2290.