MD Underground Railroad Events Explore Role Of Chesapeake Bay, Songs Of Freedom

MARYLAND — There is about a week left in Black History Month, and Maryland still has plenty of educational offerings in store. A talk outlined the Chesapeake's Bay role on the Underground Railroad. Plus, an event will spotlight the songs of the railroad.

Other upcoming activities include an oyster recovery webinar and two hikes.

Patch recently partnered with several local organizations to bring you their latest news. This guest contribution comes from National Park Service Chesapeake Gateways and Chesapeake Conservancy. Here's what Jody Hedeman Couser submitted to help you explore the Chesapeake Bay:

"Sailing to Freedom: A Maritime History of the Maryland Underground RR

When it came to methods of escape from slavery, escape by water had many advantages. It was faster than walking, accommodated children and those who could not walk long distances, kept dogs from following a scent, and many fugitives were experienced watermen. Some 70% of published escape narratives mention maritime escapes. Both Frederick Douglass’ and Harriet Tubman’s escapes involved the use of the waterways of the Chesapeake Bay. The Maryland Center for History and Culture has recorded its fascinating program based on the book Sailing to Freedom: A Maritime History of Maryland’s Underground Railroad, and have made the discussion available for viewing on YouTube."

"Songs of the Underground Railroad

In celebration of Black History Month, the Harriet Tubman Museum & Educational Center is hosting “Songs of the Underground Railroad” with David Cole and Linda Harris. Plus, there will be a visit from Harriet Tubman! Suggested donation of $20. Feb. 27, 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm; Harriet Tubman Museum, Cambridge, MD. More information and tickets."

"Oyster Restoration on the Chesapeake Bay

Learn first-hand how oyster restoration is accomplished in the Chesapeake Bay from the experts, the Oyster Recovery Program. The free webinar will be presented by Coastal Research Scientists Jen Aus and Sara Coleman. You’ll learn everything from how restoration areas are identified to what monitoring takes place when the reefs are completed. March 2, 6:30 pm. More information and registration."

"Winter Solitude On a Popular Trail

The C&O Canal’s Billy Goat Trail, especially the A portion, is one of the most popular trails in the region due in part to its proximity to Washington, DC. But with extensive views of the wild Potomac roaring through narrow chutes, and the opportunity to do some very exciting rock scrambling, it has an untamed beauty unique to our region. [This] is why hiker/blogger Saki chooses to hike the Billy Goat in winter to beat the crowds and the heat. As usual, Saki has all the details of where best to park, where to take a spur that offers views of white water kayakers or spot a beaver dam, distance options, and more. Read Winter Hiking the Billy Goat Trail."

"Bird Conservation Walk

Join the staff at Pickering Creek Audubon for the first Installment of their Delmarva Bird Conservation Series. The first event will feature a demonstration on how to use the bird observation application eBird, and lessons on the habitat restoration projects that support bird conservation on the Delmarva Peninsula. Free. March 2, 3:30 to 6:30 pm; Pickering Creek Audubon, Easton, MD. More info."

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