We’re unofficially declaring 2017 the Year of Tubman. With the opening of the new Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center in March, two movie projects in the works about Tubman’s life, a plan to have her likeness on the U.S. $20 bill, interest in her life has never been greater. Several events will be happening in the area of the Harriet Tubman Byway to celebrate her life. Here’s a listing of what’s planned. We are adding more events as we hear of them.

HARRIET TUBMAN EVENTS IN 2017
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Conference

May 18-21
Cambridge, MD
The National Park Service, National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program and the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Conference co-host a joint conference, “On the Edge of Freedom: Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad in the Borderlands.” In Cambridge, MD. Find out more.

Harriet Tubman & the Songs of Freedom

May 20
Acclaimed jazz musician Marcus Shelby performs original music inspired by Harriet Tubman’s life on Saturday, May 20.  The Marcus Shelby Quartet featuring Tiffany Austin on vocals gives a soul-stirring show that shares the stories of Harriet Tubman’s life. At Layton’s Chance Winery, 4225 New Bridge Rd, Vienna, MD 21869.  The Marcus Shelby Quartet will also perform May 19 after a dinner banquet for those attending the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Conference.  Read more >

John Wesley Wright Concert

May 21, 2pm
Dorchester Center for the Arts, 321 High St., Cambridge, MD 21613
A member of the acclaimed American Spiritual Ensemble, John Wesley Wright performs with students from Salisbury University. At the Dorchester Center for the Arts in Cambridge, MD.

Reflections on Pine: Cambridge Commemorates the Civil Rights Movement, Community and Change

July 20-23
Cambridge, MD
In the 1800s, Harriet Tubman was part of the Underground Railroad resistance movement; in the 1960s, Cambridge community members were part of their own resistance movement for civil rights. Reflections on Pine marks 50 years since the civil rights unrest in Cambridge. Look for walking tours, art exhibits, book readings, and more. Find out more >

Slave Dwelling Project

Oct. 13-15
A nationwide endeavor that brings attention to little known buildings that once served as dwellings, churches, or other uses in the lives of African Americans, comes to Dorchester County. The event includes a living history troupe representing enslaved people of the 19th century. Find out more >