African American History on Maryland’s Eastern Shore
The Legacy of Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, and the Communities of Dorchester, Caroline, and Talbot Counties
The Eastern Shore of Maryland holds powerful stories of resilience, leadership, and legacy—none more iconic than those of Frederick Douglass and Harriet Tubman, two of the most influential figures in American history. Born into slavery just a few miles apart, both risked everything to pursue freedom—and then dedicated their lives to fighting for justice and human rights.
Their stories, along with the rich and ongoing heritage of African American communities in Dorchester, Caroline, and Talbot Counties, form a powerful cultural trail across the Chesapeake region. From the marshes of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center to the historic churches of Caroline County and the vibrant Hill Community in Easton, this journey invites deep reflection and meaningful connection.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center (Dorchester County)
Location: Church Creek, Dorchester County
Best For: Immersive history, scenic beauty, self-guided tours
Begin your journey in Dorchester County, Harriet Tubman’s birthplace and the landscape that shaped her early life. The Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Visitor Center, part of the National Historical Park, offers deeply moving exhibits and interactive storytelling about Tubman's life and legacy.
Pro Tip: Walk the grounds and follow the Harriet Tubman Byway, a self-guided driving tour featuring over 30 historic sites including Bucktown General Store and the Brodess Farm area.
Bethel AME Church & Linchester Mill (Caroline County)
Location: Preston and Linchester, Caroline County
Best For: Underground Railroad history, spiritual heritage, local interpretation
Located just minutes from Harriet Tubman’s known routes, Bethel AME Church in Preston served as a vital refuge for freedom seekers traveling through the area. Founded in the 1800s, it remains a cornerstone of African American spiritual and community life.
The nearby Linchester Mill Complex now operates as a heritage museum, standing on a historic corridor used by the Underground Railroad. Visitors can learn about the courageous individuals who risked their lives to help enslaved people escape to freedom.
Local Tip: The Harriet Tubman Byway runs through Caroline County with stops in Preston, Denton, and Linchester that highlight this powerful network of support.
The Hill Community, Easton (Talbot County)
Location: Easton, Talbot County
Best For: Historic walking tours, architecture, living heritage
Further north, Easton’s Hill Community is one of the nation’s oldest continuously inhabited African American neighborhoods, dating back to the 1790s. The area is rich with family histories, historic churches such as Asbury United Methodist and Bethel A.M.E. Church, and ongoing preservation efforts.
Visitors can explore a self-guided walking tour highlighting historic homes, landmarks, and stories that celebrate the community’s resilience and contributions.
Don’t miss the nearby Talbot Historical Society and Water’s Edge Museum for exhibits and oral histories that deepen the experience.
Frederick Douglass: From Talbot to the World
Location: Near Tuckahoe Creek & Easton, Talbot County
Best For: Monument sites, personal history, civic reflection
Born into slavery in Talbot County near Tuckahoe Creek, Frederick Douglass escaped bondage to become a leading abolitionist and orator. In Easton, the Frederick Douglass statue at the Talbot County Courthouse honors his legacy, standing near the very place enslaved people were once auctioned.
Nearby historic markers and parks provide further context on Douglass’s early life and enduring impact and can be explored through the Frederick Douglass Driving Tour.
Plan Your Cultural Heritage Tour
Whether for a day trip or a weekend getaway, this cultural trail through Dorchester, Caroline, and Talbot Counties offers a moving and educational experience. Take time to reflect on the stories of struggle, resistance, and triumph that shaped America.
Tips for Meaningful Visits:
- Download the Harriet Tubman Byway Map for a self-guided tour
- Consider guided tours through local heritage organizations for deeper insights
- Support Black-owned businesses, galleries, and restaurants along your route
