9 Astonishing Truths About Harriet Tubman

Reverend Paul Carter, who has conducted tours of Harriet Tubman’s residence in Auburn, New York, for over 25 years, is frequently amazed by the lack of awareness about her transformation from an enslaved individual to a key figure in the Underground Railroad and a Civil War spy. Alongside Karen Hill, the president and CEO of the property, Carter takes pride in enlightening visitors about Tubman’s extraordinary life. He guides them through the historic site Tubman owned for 50 years, now integrated into the national park system. “We firmly believe she stands among America’s greatest heroes,” Hill remarked to Mytour in 2016. Below are nine fascinating facts Carter and Hill share that often leave visitors in awe.

1. Her Original Name Wasn’t Harriet Tubman.

Far from it. Harriet Tubman was born Araminta Ross, and her family affectionately called her “Minty” during her childhood. She adopted the name Harriet as a teenager, paying tribute to her mother.

2. Tubman overcame severe health challenges.

During her youth, a weight intended for another enslaved person struck Tubman in the head, leaving her with lifelong ailments such as headaches, seizures, and vivid visions. Despite these physical hardships, she embarked on extensive journeys spanning hundreds and thousands of miles.

3. She successfully freed her own family.

After securing her own freedom, Tubman returned to Maryland’s Eastern Shore up to 13 times to rescue her family and friends, marking the beginning of her role as an Underground Railroad conductor. She successfully guided over 70 individuals to safety, with many finding refuge in St. Catharines, Ontario.

4. Tubman was of modest height.

Despite her formidable reputation—often brandishing a gun to deter hesitation among those seeking freedom—Tubman stood at less than 5 feet tall.

5. She survived both of her husbands.

During her absences while guiding others to freedom via the Underground Railroad, her first husband, John Tubman, remarried. After his death, Tubman also entered a second marriage. Her new spouse, Nelson Davis, was significantly younger—by at least 24 years—but he, too, passed away long before her.

6. Tubman made history as the first woman to command a U.S. military operation.

Tubman received $200 for her three-year service as a cook, nurse, scout, and spy for the Union Army during the Civil War. Her contributions included orchestrating a raid that liberated 750 enslaved individuals in South Carolina, cementing her legacy as the first woman to lead an armed expedition in U.S. enemy territory, as noted by Hill.

7. Tubman received support from influential allies, including William Seward.

She forged a close bond with William Seward, one of the era’s most influential figures, who later became Lincoln’s secretary of state. In 1859, she acquired his Auburn property at a modest cost, transforming it into her family home.

8. Tubman dedicated her life to helping others until the very end.

After the war, Tubman’s altruism continued unabated. She became a relentless advocate for women’s suffrage. Despite her persistent financial struggles, her unwavering faith led her to donate part of her land to establish a sanctuary for elderly Black Americans. She eventually spent her final years in this very home.

9. Tubman enjoyed an exceptionally long life by the standards of her era.

Tubman passed away in 1913 at approximately 91 years of age (her birth is estimated to be around 1822), marking an exceptionally long lifespan for her era, particularly given the immense physical challenges she faced throughout her life.