Maryland Proclaims September as 5th Annual International Underground Railroad Month

BALTIMORE, MD (August 29, 2023) — Maryland Secretary of Commerce Kevin Anderson today presented a proclamation issued by Governor Wes Moore declaring September 2023 as the 5th annual International Underground Railroad Month in Maryland. The month acknowledges the significance of the Underground Railroad, and all those involved, for its contribution to the eradication of slavery in the United States and as a cornerstone for the more comprehensive civil rights movement that followed. “The Underground Railroad in many ways centered in Maryland, yet had far-reaching international impact—the stories of the Freedom Seekers and all they represented are stories for us to share with the world,” said Gov. Moore. “International Underground Railroad Month is a way to encourage everyone to visit historical sites and attractions and take part in special events, so we can continue to commemorate the visionary freedom fighters and the perils of enslaved people.”

The month coincides with continuing efforts to highlight the 25th anniversary of the National Park Service National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom program, which consists of sites, programs, and facilities with a verifiable connection to the Underground Railroad. Two new historical markers were unveiled today on the grounds of the National Aquarium as a part of the Proclamation event. To date, Maryland features 91 official Network to Freedom sites, facilities and programs.

“With nearly 100 Network to Freedom experiences throughout the state, Maryland is uniquely positioned as the world’s most powerful Underground Railroad storytelling destination,” said Maryland Department of Commerce Secretary Kevin Anderson. “Visiting the museums and attractions and taking part in special activities this month honors the brave men and women who were committed to freedom for themselves and others.” 

A range of sites offer permanent Underground Railroad exhibits and experiences, including but not limited to: the Josiah Henson Museum & Park, the Visit Hagerstown Underground Railroad Walking Tour, the Southern Maryland African American Heritage Guide, the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway Driving Tour, and Maryland’s Frederick Douglass Driving Tour.

A full list of International Underground Railroad Month events, exhibits, and activities can be found here. Some offerings include:

• “Traveling Through Chesapeake Country on the Underground Railroad.” While kayaking, gain a unique perspective of the land- and water-challenges that Freedom Seekers faced moving up the Chesapeake Bay towards freedom, all while learning the stories of the Freedom Seekers who traveled through Cecil County. (Sept. 7 & 14, North East)
• “African American Heritage Tour.” Trace the journey of African Americans in Anne Arundel County and explore their impact both nationally and internationally. Your guide will highlight the importance of the Underground Railroad on the Chesapeake Bay and throughout Annapolis. (Sept. 16, Annapolis)
• “Emancipation Celebration.” Celebrate Harriet Tubman’s decision to self-liberate with programs and activities throughout the day. (Sept. 17, at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center, Church Creek)
• “Pursuing Freedom Night Hike.” In this immersive experience, participants will discover the history of enslaved people on the Elk Neck Peninsula and their pursuit of freedom, while guided by a park ranger. (Sept. 23, North East)

To plan your journey to Underground Railroad sites and to learn more, visit https://www.visitmaryland.org/UGRR.

To learn more about the Tubman Byway, download the audio guide complete with new AR/VR experiences, or request a free copy of the byway map and guide. Share your travel highlights on social media using the hashtag #MDinFocus.

About Maryland Department of Commerce Office of Tourism
The Maryland Office of Tourism is an agency within the Maryland Department of Commerce. Visitors to the state spent $16.4 billion on travel-related expenses in 2021. The Maryland tourism industry also generated $2.1 billion in state and local taxes, essentially saving each Maryland household $923 in annual taxes, and directly supported Marylanders with nearly 113,000 jobs. For more information, go to www.visitmaryland.org.

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