Famous for her work on the Underground
Railroad, Harriet Tubman helped slaves to
freedom before the Civil War. Dedicated
to this service, she used a string of “safe
houses” known as the Underground
Railroad.
Today in Harrisonburg, VA, Stan
Maclin works to keep some of her
legacy alive in an annex of the
original Mabel Memorial
Schoolhouse. Maclin went to
Eastern Mennonite Seminary and
investigated how to do something
new with urban ministry and
community outreach. Since then,
he has developed a fascinating
collection to highlight a very
informative cultural learning
tour of the schoolhouse exhibits,
films, and outdoor “Freedom
Trail” simulating a flight to
freedom. All of this helps the
visitor capture the life of
Harriet Tubman – her
characteristics of helping
people as a devoted leader and
commitment as a nurse, a cook, a spy, an
entrepreneur and a stateswoman.
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A major event for Maclin is the Harriet
Tubman Cultural Celebration every March 10.
The date was designated as Harriet Tubman
Day by President George H.W. Bush in
1990 because of her death on that date
in 1913. If you are hungry, a charming
kiosk is just outside, offering hot
dogs, brats, and other goodies.
Chany Kazadi opens the kiosk
Tuesdays through Saturdays
from 12:30 PM to 5 PM.
Plan to make an appointment
to visit the Harriet Tubman
Cultural Center when in
Harrisonburg, and Stan Machlin
will give you a personal and
very engaging tour. You may
reach him at 540-578-6389.
The Center is located at 475
Lucy Drive, at the corner of
Reservoir Street. Admission
is $10 for adults, and free for
students 11 and under. You
will not be disappointed!
By Michelle Scott