Celebrate International Underground Railroad Month

In September, we are joining destinations across Maryland in celebrating International Underground Railroad Month in Caroline County, Maryland, is a great way to honor the legacy of those who fought for freedom. Caroline County has a rich history connected to the Underground Railroad, with several sites and events that commemorate this important part of American history. Here’s how you can celebrate:

Key Sites and Events in Caroline County

Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway:

• The byway includes fifteen sites in Caroline County that were significant in the life of Harriet Tubman and other freedom seekers. You can explore the driving route, which features interpretive signs and historical markers.

• The byway can be explored on your own or with guided tours that often provide deeper insights into the history and stories of the area.

• A few sites of interest include: Linchester Mill, James H. Webb Cabin, William Still Interpretive Center.

Community Events and Educational Programs:

• Freedom’s River: An Underground Railroad History Day on the Water. Take a cruise on the Choptank River to uncover the powerful stories of freedom seekers and the enduring legacy of the Underground Railroad. A waitlist is offered for the event, please inquire directly about scheduling a private cruise tour. Freedom’s River Tour

• Birding & Boating the Harriet Tubman Byway. A guided, self-driven tour lead by Delmarva Birding Weekends and Harriet Tubman Tours, discover the birds and wildlife that Tubman would have encountered while navigating the upper reaches of the Choptank River. This area provided crossings for freedom seekers heading north toward Delaware. For inquiries outside of scheduled tours and booking. Birding & Boating the Byway

• Rooted Wisdom Podcast Listening Party. Adkins Arboretum is set to launch a podcast listening party. Rooted Wisdom reveals the people and places that shaped our history and considers how their stories continue to shape our lives today. This podcast will extend to investigate the larger history of the Underground Railroad. Available via livestream or inperson on September 26th. Rooted Wisdom

• Bishop Alexander Wayman: Faith, Freedom & Justice- From Tuckahoe to the World. An additional program of interest around the seventh Bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Born in Tuckahoe Neck. Wayman also has a legacy of freedom for African Americans; a liberator in his own rights who worked toward spiritual freedom for African Americans. Bishop Alexander Wayman

Local Museums and Historical Societies:

• The Caroline County Historical Society and the Museum of Rural Life have exhibits related to the Underground Railroad. These institutions often provide a wealth of information on local history and the broader context of the fight for freedom.African American History & Culture

Tips for Celebrating

• Plan Ahead
• Take a Guided Tour
• Participate in Events

We invite you to gain a deeper understanding of the region’s history and the incredible courage of those who risked everything for freedom.