Harriet Tubman’s lost family home found in Maryland

Federal and Maryland state officials announced they made a landmark discovery of Harriet Tubman’s lost family home, by archeologists working on land owned by the U.S. Fish and WildLife Services.

In a press release, Maryland’s Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (SHA) conducted research that led to discovering the historic homesite once owned by the father of famed abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor Harriet Tubman, born Araminta Ross. The home belonged to her father, Ben Ross, and is believed to be where she spent her childhood and teenage years.

According to his will Ross received the land when he was freed from slavery.

“This discovery adds another puzzle piece to the story of Harriet Tubman, the state of Maryland, and our nation,” said Lieutenant Governor Boyd K. Rutherford.

“It is important that we continue to uncover parts of our history that we can learn from, especially when they can be lost to time and other forces. I hope that this latest success story can inspire similar efforts and help strengthen our partnerships in the future.”

In March, Chief Archaeologist Dr. Julie Schablitsky and her team found numerous artifacts dating to the 1800s, including nails, brick, glass, dish fragments and even a button, confirming evidence of the cabin.

“The importance of discovering Ben Ross’ cabin here is the connection to Harriet Tubman. She would’ve spent time here as a child, but also she would’ve come back and been living here with her father in her teenage years, working alongside him,” said Dr. Schablitsky.

The home site will be highlighted on the historic Thompson Farm where Ross and his family were enslaved. It will be officially added to the 125 mile Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway, a self-guided scenic drive that includes more than 30 sites related to Harriet Tubman’s life and legacy.