Harriet Tubman Monuments

The monuments and memorials in the section commemorate the extraordinary achievements of the abolitionist and women’s rights activist Harriet Tubman, née Araminta Ross, (c. 1822—1913). Born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore, she escaped to freedom in 1849. During the next ten years, she made approximately thirteen trips into Maryland to rescue other enslaved family members and friends. She provided instructions for escape to about 70 more enslaved people who were able to self-emancipate. During the Civil War, she served the United States Army as a spy, scout, nurse and cook. As one of the most famous conductors of the Underground Railroad, the monuments in this section often depict Tubman leading groups of freedom seekers on their journey northwards to freedom, such as Mario Chiodo’s Unwavering Courage in the Pursuit of Freedom. In other works, such as Alison Saar’s Swing Low, Tubman is depicted alone, facing southward as she makes the perilous journey back to Maryland to free more enslaved people.