Planning in Progress

by Kristen E. Humphrey, MLA, Local Assistance and Training Planner

In February, Governor Larry Hogan proclaimed 2022 “the Year of Harriet Tubman,” in celebration of the 200th anniversary of the birth of Harriet Tubman and the 5th anniversary of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center.

“Harriet Tubman dedicated her life in selfless service to others and the cause of freedom,” said Governor Hogan. “This year, as we celebrate her 200th birthday, we hope that even more Marylanders and visitors from across the country will take time to learn about the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad and her years-long struggle to lead countless slaves to their freedom.” 

The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) website describes the park and visitor’s center as providing an opportunity for visitors “to experience Tubman’s world through exhibits that are informative and emotive, providing an in depth understanding of Tubman’s early years spent in Maryland’s Choptank River region and her legacy as a leader, liberator, and humanitarian in the resistance movement of the Underground Railroad.”

The park is located at the trailhead for the 125‐mile Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway (designated an All American Road by the U.S. Secretary of Transportation) and orients visitors to Tubman’s life and legacy as well as Underground Railroad heritage sites and programs within the county and region.  

To learn more about Harriet Tubman’s extraordinary life and contributions, view DNR’s informative series of informative videos developed as part of the year-long celebration…and be sure to schedule a trip with your family to the park and travel the historic byway!