Denton in Caroline County, Maryland — The American Northeast (Mid-Atlantic)
Choptank River Heritage Center
Steal Away by River
— Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway —
Photographed By Don Morfe, October 29, 2014
1. Choptank River Heritage Center Marker
The Choptank River was as entwined with the history of slavery and freedom on the Eastern Shore as any plantation. Slaves arrived by boat for auction and left the dock in the hands of a new owner. At wharves like this, black watermen played an important role in freedom’s network, bringing news, passing gossip, and occasionally whispering advice about the prospects for escape.A river crossing was always dangerous for fleeing slaves. Few could swim, and currents were strong. Bridges were tempting but usually tended. Dogs and slave catchers could corner escapees at the water’s edge. Freedom seekers often improved plans to steal away by water.
After abolitionist Hugh Haziett’s arrest for helping slaves escape, he was taken from Caroline County jail to trial down river in Cambridge, where and angry mob greeted his arrival.
RIGHT: Moses Viney used two fence posts for oars and rowed a stolen canoe to freedom. He successfully reached Schenectady, NY, where he worked for Union College and owned several buildings downtown.
Erected by America's Byways; Maryland Heritage Area Authority
Photographed By Don Morfe, October 29, 2014
2. Choptank River Heritage Center
this page online
Topics and series. This historical marker is listed in these topic lists: Abolition & Underground RR • African Americans. In addition, it is included in the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway series list.
Location. 38° 53.304′ N, 75° 50.376′ W. Marker is in Denton, Maryland, in Caroline County. Marker is on River Landing Road. Touch for map. Marker is at or near this postal address: 10219 River Landing Road, Denton MD 21629, United States of America. Touch for directions.
Other nearby markers. At least 8 other markers are within walking distance of this marker. Maryland Steamboat Company's Joppa Wharf at Denton (here, next to this marker); Steamboats on the Choptank River (a few steps from this marker); Hubs of Activity (a few steps from this marker); The Denton Arrests (about 400 feet away, measured in a direct line); Moses and the Hounds (about 400 feet away); Caroline County Visitor Center (about 700 feet away); Neck Meeting House (approx. 0.3 miles away); Tuckahoe Neck Meeting House (approx. 0.3 miles away). Touch for a list and map of all markers in Denton.
Photographed By Don Morfe, October 29, 2014
3. Choptank River Heritage Center-Maryland Steamboat Co.
Photographed By Don Morfe, October 29, 2014
4. The Choptank River
Credits. This page was last revised on September 5, 2022. It was originally submitted on December 2, 2014, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland. This page has been viewed 674 times since then and 34 times this year. Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4. submitted on December 2, 2014, by Don Morfe of Baltimore, Maryland. • Bill Pfingsten was the editor who published this page.
Editor’s want-list for this marker. A photo of the marker reverse • Can you help?
