The life of Harriet Tubman – a living history performance

The John Brown Farm State Historic Site will present a free, public living history performance based on the life of Harriet Tubman. The performance will offer a close look into the life and achievements of Harriet Tubman. Her life is a monument to courage and determination that continues to stand out in American history. Born enslaved, she endured brutality and a near-death injury, regained strength, and saw a different future, eventually freeing herself, family members, and many others. She was a brilliant strategist who developed amazing navigational and survival skills, and would go on to serve as a cook, nurse, and spy for Union forces during the American Civil War. In 1863, she was the first woman to lead an armed attack in the War, liberating 700 slaves in the process.

Tubman will be portrayed by Charmaine Crowell-White, an actor, storyteller and educator from Charlottesville, VA. Ms. Crowell-White, a graduate of San Jose State University, is an accomplished theater arts professional who integrates her dedication, perspectives, and skills into a wide range of educational and performance settings. Her many services range from actor, storyteller, and living history interpreter to theater enrichment artist and instructor, leadership workshop director, and program planner for other performing arts occasions. She has practiced and refined her craft for over twenty years. Her specialty is one-woman live stage performances. which transport engaged audiences into the lives of extraordinary African American women and their ambitions, struggles, heroism, and survival in the face of racism and violence.

This free performance, sponsored by The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, will take place behind the barn at John Brown Farm, weather permitting, or under the big tent if needed to keep everyone warm and dry.