Finding Freedom, Faith and Family on

Maryland’s Underground Railroad

Southern Maryland’s rolling hills, gentle water-laced peninsulas and sweeping vistas are the setting for this tour through the history of slavery and freedom in Maryland. Uplifted through faith and supported by the love of family, enslaved Marylanders persevered, and some found their freedom.

Working on massive tobacco plantations, farms and waterways, many enslaved men, women and children faced harsh treatment. Unique opportunities allowed some to escape oppression by joining military forces: fleeing to the British Colonial Marines during the War of 1812, or joining the United States Colored Troops during the Civil War. Some escaped by water. Others took daring risks and fled over land to the North or to Washington, D.C., where they blended into the free Black population on crowded streets.

Explore the collection of Southern Maryland’s Underground Railroad sites, and step back in time to colonial Maryland on the Historic Annapolis Underground Railroad Walking Tour. See mansions where enslaved people toiled, and hear stories of courageous souls who fought for their freedom and hope and resilience resound. You’ll find the echoes of the enslaved live on through the triumphs, burdens and successes of their descendant generations. 

• International Underground Railroad Month Events
• Historic Annapolis Underground Railroad Walking Tour
• Southern Maryland - Underground Railroad Sites
• The Hidden Chesapeake: Slavery and Freedom through Harriet Tubman’s Eyes
• Finding Freedom, Faith & Family On Maryland’s Underground Railroad Guide - Download