Archaeologists in Maryland Uncover Rare Artifacts Beneath Harriet Tubman’s Father’s Home
Archaeologists in Hanover, Maryland, came across rare artifacts that have ties to American abolitionist Harriet Tubman.
The excavation was led by the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) at the site of Tubman’s father, Ben Ross’ home.
“Pieces of plates, pitchers, bowls, and more found at the site of Harriet Tubman’s father’s home give us more insight into how the family lived 200 years ago,” MDOT Secretary Paul Wiedefeld stated. These discoveries shed light on a time steeped in struggle and resilience, where every item, no matter how small, tells a story of survival.
Tubman spent her teenage years living with her father, a time that shaped her indomitable spirit and resolve in the face of oppression, according to MDOT.
Historical Significance of the Discovery
The home lies hidden deep within the wetlands of the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a sanctuary for migratory birds since 1933, as noted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS). This refuge, while a haven for wildlife today, once cradled the dreams and aspirations of a family against the backdrop of a nation grappling with its conscience.
Archaeologists first pinpointed this significant site in 2021, utilizing historical documents to determine its exact location. They painstakingly dug one thousand holes along a historic road, uncovering gems of the past, like an 1808 coin and fragments of ceramics that whisper secrets of a bygone era.
With each shovel’s dig deeper into the earth, outlines of bricks emerged, accompanied by shards of window glass and rusted nails. These remnants evoke images of a home filled with laughter, struggle, and dreams for a better life.
Connecting the Past with the Present
The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge boasts over 20,000 acres for public enjoyment, featuring more than five miles of hiking trails and 17 miles of paddling routes, according to FWS. It stands as a testament to the enduring beauty of nature, allowing visitors to reflect on the historical narratives interwoven with its landscape.
Though the actual site is inaccessible to the public, MDOT has pioneered a virtual museum experience. This innovative approach allows history enthusiasts to explore 3D models, photographs, and detailed descriptions of artifacts. It brings the past alive in a manner that can be remotely appreciated, emphasizing the importance of remembering those who fought for freedom.
Tubman’s legacy as a conductor of the Underground Railroad remains pivotal. She led more than 70 enslaved people to freedom, forging paths through perilous terrain. “During public and private meetings in 1858 and 1859, Tubman often recounted how she rescued 50 to 60 individuals across eight or nine journeys, leading up to her final mission in December 1860 when she brought away seven souls,” as stated by the National Park Service.
In the tapestry of American history, Harriet Tubman is a thread that unites courage and compassion, bravery and empathy. Each artifact discovered is not merely a relic; it is a bridge to understanding a remarkable woman who defied her constraints and a family who dreamed of freedom amidst adversity. The layers of history unearthed in Maryland echo a silent testament to human resilience and the unyielding quest for liberty.
In an unexpected twist of fate, Ben Ross, Tubman’s father, often faced the harsh realities of enslavement while nurturing a spirit of defiance in his daughter. Today’s revelations serve as poignant reminders of that shared struggle, linking us to a past that still resonates.
