On March 9, 2013, Governor Martin O’Malley -- along with several hundred national, state and local supporters -- broke ground for the 17-acre Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center, commemorating the life and legacy of the legendary abolitionist. The 125-mile Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway was also unveiled during the Join the Journey Centennial Celebration, which marked the 100th anniversary of Tubman’s death.

Press Release:  Maryland Breaks Ground on Tubman State Park; Governor Names Salazar Admiral

View the photos from the event

“President Obama made a long-held dream come true for countless Marylanders with his decision to forever commemorate the life and legacy of one of the Underground Railroad's most famed conductors, Harriet Tubman. By selecting Maryland's Eastern Shore as the site for the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument, President Obama will help us preserve the life and legacy of an American hero.

“This landmark designation comes two weeks after we broke ground on a new State Park in Cambridge bearing Harriet's name, which stands at the head of a scenic byway where she safely led scores of enslaved people to freedom. We are grateful to President Obama and our federal, local and private partners, including The Conservation Fund, for a donation of land that made this monument possible. Thanks to the hard work and commitment of many, Harriet Tubman's legacy will live on forever."

Martin O’Malley
Governor