Tubman was born into slavery in Dorchester County, Maryland. Born Araminta Ross, she was the fifth of nine children, four boys and five girls, of Ben and Harriet Greene Ross. She rarely lived with her owner, Edward Brodess, but from the age of six was frequently hired out to other masters.

In 1852, author and social activist Harriet Beecher Stowe popularized the anti-slavery movement with her novel Uncle Tom’s Cabin. While slavery was prominent in the South, many Americans did not encounter slavery daily; therefore, many did not fully grasp its appalling nature.

Tubman’s religious faith was another important resource as she ventured repeatedly into Maryland. The visions from her childhood head injury continued, and she saw them as divine premonitions. She spoke of “consulting with God”, and trusted that He would keep her safe.

After Harriet Tubman escaped from slavery, she returned to slave-holding states many times to help other slaves escape. She led them safely to the northern free states and to Canada. It was very dangerous to be a runaway slave.

After serving as a nurse during the Civil War, she returned to Auburn, where she died in 1913 in a seniors’ home she had established. Today, there are many reminders of Tubman’s presence in St. Catharines, ranging from plaques to federal recognition of the historical significance of Salem Chapel.

300 slaves

Why did Tubman enjoy living in Canada? Many of her friends lived in her community with her. She enjoyed more freedom there than in the United States. People living in Canada had a lot of money and little difficulty finding work.

In all 30,000 slaves fled to Canada, many with the help of the underground railroad – a secret network of free blacks and white sympathizers who helped runaways. Canada was viewed as a safe haven, where a black person could be free.

Minty

Cornered by armed slave catchers on a bridge over a raging river, Harriet Tubman knew she had two choices – give herself up, or choose freedom and risk her life by jumping into the rapids.