News Summary

On June 1, 2024, a significant monument to Harriet Tubman was unveiled in Beaufort, SC, coinciding with the 161st anniversary of the Combahee River Raid. Created by Ed Dwight, the 14-foot sculpture depicts Tubman with Union soldiers and freed individuals. The ceremony saw a turnout of 700 attendees and included performances, discussions on Tubman’s legacy, and recognition of her contributions during the Civil War. Mayor Phil Cromer emphasized the need for greater public awareness of Tubman’s impact in the community.

Beaufort Unveils Monument to Harriet Tubman

Beaufort, South Carolina, marked an important historical milestone with the unveiling of a monument dedicated to Harriet Tubman on June 1, 2024. This date also commemorates the 161st anniversary of the 1863 Combahee River Raid, a pivotal event in which Tubman played a crucial role.

The monument, created by sculptor Ed Dwight, is positioned at the Tabernacle Baptist Church on Craven Street. An estimated crowd of 700 people gathered for the ceremony, which celebrated Tubman’s enduring legacy.

Key Highlights of the Ceremony

• The monument stands 14 feet tall and depicts Tubman alongside Union soldiers and fleeing enslaved individuals, symbolizing the quest for freedom.
• Rev. Kenneth Hodges, pastor of Tabernacle Baptist Church, championed the project, which took eight years and nearly $1 million to complete.
• Leading up to the unveiling, events included a discussion by historian Edda Fields-Black on Tubman’s legacy and a libation ceremony by Queen Quet, chieftess of the Gullah Geechee Nation.
• The Combahee River Raid is recognized as the only successful Union military action that liberated substantial numbers of enslaved people.

During her time in Beaufort, Tubman contributed by gathering intelligence, nursing soldiers, and aiding newly freed slaves. The monument is strategically located next to historic sites on Craven Street, including the burial site of Civil War hero Robert Smalls.

The creation of Tubman’s monument faced challenges, particularly in increasing public awareness of her contributions in South Carolina. Mayor Phil Cromer emphasized during the ceremony that Tubman’s legacy is integral to Beaufort’s community and deserves recognition.

Though sculptor Ed Dwight could not attend the ceremony, his statement was shared with attendees. The event included performances of spirituals, enhancing the day’s significance with contributions from local leaders, historians, and Tubman’s descendants. Tubman’s journey from slavery in Maryland to a prominent abolitionist and conductor on the Underground Railroad was highlighted as part of her remarkable legacy.

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Additional Resources

• Explore Beaufort: Harriet Tubman Monument Unveiled
• Wikipedia: Harriet Tubman
• Your Island News: Tubman Monument Unveiled
• Google Search: Harriet Tubman Monument Beaufort
• Post and Courier: Harriet Tubman Monument Beaufort
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Underground Railroad
• WJCL: Beaufort Preserving History
• Google News: Harriet Tubman

Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD

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