Photo by Christyl O’Flaherty; with second photographer Tchanavia Lastie and third photographer Aaron Searcy
September is International Underground Railroad Month here in Maryland! The month acknowledges the significance of the Underground Railroad, and all those involved, for its contribution to the eradication of slavery in the United States and as a cornerstone for a more comprehensive civil rights movement that followed. September also marks the self liberation of two of Maryland’s freedom fighters, Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass.
This is the third year that Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan has declared September as International Underground Railroad Month, recognizing the state as the “most powerful Underground Railroad storytelling destination in the world.” It’s also the month when Harriet Tubman made her first attempt to escape slavery (Sept. 17) and when Frederick Douglass self-liberated himself in Baltimore (Sept. 3). One way to mark the month is to take the road trip known as the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway. This self-guided, scenic driving tour includes more than 30 sites, many of them with outdoor markers or interpretive signs that share the story of that place.
“Maryland’s Underground Railroad had so many inspirational freedom seekers whose stories can be explored today through unique attractions, historical sites, and programming,” said Gov. Hogan. “While Harriet Tubman and Frederick Douglass are two well-known freedom fighters, International Underground Railroad Month honors all the brave men, women, and children who fought for freedom.”
Here are some of the events happening along the Tubman Byway this month:
Day of Resilience
The Third Annual Day of Resilience on Sept. 11-12 in Cambridge, Maryland, will commemorate the theme, “Honoring our Ancestors by Reconnecting with Our Roots,” and will feature Ambassador Sidique Wai of Sierra Leone as the keynote speaker during a Town Hall Meeting on Africa. The event happens along the Harriet Tubman Byway. There’s a fashion show, live music, and more. Details
Emancipation Day at the Tubman Visitor Center
Honor Harriet Tubman’s self-emancipation on Sept. 19 at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park & Visitor Center (Stop #13 along the Tubman Byway). The day includes birding, storytelling, talks on the Underground Railroad and the archaeology of the Ben Ross homesite, family fun, Junior Ranger activities, and more. 10am-3pm.
Tours of the byway by boat, kayak, and on foot
In celebration of Underground Railroad Month, Harriet Tubman Tours and Delmarva Birding Weekends are partnering with local outfitters to explore the Tubman Byway on Maryland’s Eastern Shore and Southern Delaware by boat, kayak and on foot. September is also a great month for experiencing fall migration, so the birding on these trips should be spectacular. Check out the tours happening on Sept. 10, Sept. 15, Sept. 16, and Sept. 30. Get details and sign up before they sell out.
Walking tour of Frederick Douglass in Cambridge
Join a walking tour that will share the importance of two visits Frederick Douglass made to Cambridge, Maryland in 1877 and 1878. The tour will start at Long Wharf and conclude on Pine Street in front of Bethel AME Church. There are two tours set for Sept. 4: 10am to 12pm and 1:30 to 3:30pm. Details
A Walk in the Woods at Peter’s Neck
Enjoy a guided two-mile walk in the woods through the Peter’s Neck district, near the homesite of Ben Ross, Harriet Tubman’s father on Sunday, Sept. 26. Discover what life was like for the communities that helped raise Harriet Tubman.
Participants will meet at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center (4068 Golden Hill Rd, Church Creek, MD 21622) at 1pm and will be shuttled to Peter’s Neck, within the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge. Please bring a mask for the shuttle ride. Participants are also encouraged to wear boots and bring bug spray and bottled water.
To register for this inaugural program, contact Ranger Cierra at 410-221-2290 ext. 1144. Registration is required and space is limited.
NOTE: The amazing photo above (yes, it’s a photo!) is a re-enactment inspired by the “Harriet” movie. It was spearheaded by photographer Christyl O’Flaherty, along with second photographer Tchanavia Lastie and third photographer Aaron Searcy. Learn more about this powerful photo series.