Dutchess County Considers Resolution for Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway

The Village of Rhinebeck Board of Trustees is poised to join a significant historical initiative aimed at educating the public about the Underground Railroad and the legacy of Harriet Tubman. During the recent meeting on August 12, 2025, Trustee Michael presented a resolution to establish a Harriet Tubman byway, which has already received approval from 122 municipalities across 22 counties in New York. Rhinebeck is currently the only municipality along Route 9 yet to endorse this resolution.

The proposed byway is designed to highlight an important, albeit painful, chapter in American history. Tubman, born into slavery in Maryland in 1822, became a pivotal figure in the fight for freedom, helping approximately 70 enslaved individuals escape to freedom through the Underground Railroad. The resolution aims to commemorate her contributions and educate residents and visitors about the historical significance of the route.

Trustee Michael emphasized the importance of recognizing this aspect of history, noting that Rhinebeck had a notable enslaved population in the 1790 census, which was higher than many Southern states at the time. The byway would not only honor Tubman's legacy but also serve as a reminder of the struggles faced by those who sought freedom.

The initiative is backed by funding and authority from the federal government, facilitated through the New York State Department of Transportation. If approved, the byway will stretch from New York City to Niagara Falls, creating a corridor that connects various historical sites related to the Underground Railroad.

The board's decision on this resolution is expected to have lasting implications for community education and historical awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of the region's role in the fight against slavery. As Rhinebeck considers this resolution, it stands at the forefront of a movement to honor and remember the sacrifices made for freedom.