Harriet Tubman, a legendary abolitionist and humanitarian, was married twice during her lifetime. Her first husband, John Tubman, was a free Black man whom she married in 1844 while she was still enslaved. After their separation, she later married Nelson Davis in 1869, a Union Army veteran. Both relationships showcased different aspects of her personal life, resilience, and dedication to her family and mission.
Who Is Harriet Tubman’s Husband?
Harriet Tubman had two husbands in her lifetime. Her first husband, John Tubman, was a free Black man. They married in 1844, but their marriage ended when she escaped slavery in 1849, and he chose not to follow her. Later, she met Nelson Davis, a soldier in the Union Army, and they married in 1869. Nelson and Harriet lived together in Auburn, New York, and adopted a daughter named Gertie. Harriet’s husbands played different roles in her life, reflecting her challenging but extraordinary journey.
Harriet Tubman’s Bio & Wiki
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Araminta Ross (later Harriet Tubman) |
| Date of Birth | March 1822 (approx.) |
| Place of Birth | Dorchester County, Maryland, USA |
| Occupation | Abolitionist, Nurse, Scout, Suffragist |
| Husbands | John Tubman (m. 1844), Nelson Davis (m. 1869) |
| Children | Adopted one daughter, Gertie Davis |
| Date of Death | March 10, 1913 |
Harriet Tubman is best remembered for her heroic efforts to free enslaved people via the Underground Railroad and her service during the Civil War.
Background and Early Life of Harriet Tubman’s Husband
John Tubman, Harriet’s first husband, was a free Black man living in Maryland. Despite his status, their marriage faced challenges as Harriet remained enslaved. Nelson Davis, her second husband, was born in North Carolina and escaped slavery before joining the Union Army during the Civil War. Davis was a soldier in the 8th United States Colored Infantry and later settled in Auburn, New York, where he met Harriet.
How Harriet Tubman Met Her Husband
Harriet Tubman met her first husband, John Tubman, while working as an enslaved person in Maryland. Their marriage was an act of courage, as laws of the time complicated relationships between free and enslaved individuals. Later, she met Nelson Davis after the Civil War when he boarded at her home in Auburn, New York. Their shared experiences of overcoming hardship brought them closer, leading to their marriage in 1869.
Harriet Tubman’s Relationships, Past Affairs, and Boyfriends
Harriet Tubman’s relationships were shaped by the difficulties of her time. Her first marriage to John Tubman ended when he refused to escape with her to the North. She moved forward independently, dedicating herself to rescuing enslaved people. After the Civil War, she found companionship with Nelson Davis. There is no record of Harriet Tubman having any other affairs or relationships beyond her two marriages, as much of her life was devoted to her mission of freedom and justice.
Harriet Tubman’s Family
Harriet Tubman was born to Harriet “Rit” Green and Ben Ross, both enslaved in Maryland. She had eight siblings, though several were sold away. After escaping slavery, Harriet made multiple trips to rescue her parents and siblings, ultimately settling them in Auburn, New York. Her family played a significant role in her life and mission, inspiring her to continue her brave work.
Harriet Tubman’s Kids
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Children | Gertie Davis (adopted) |
| Adoption Year | 1874 |
| Details | Gertie was adopted by Harriet and Nelson Davis after their marriage. Harriet and Nelson raised Gertie on their farm in Auburn, New York, providing her with a loving home. |
Harriet Tubman and Nelson Davis did not have biological children, but they poured their energy and love into raising Gertie.
Facts About Harriet Tubman
- Harriet Tubman was nicknamed “Moses” for leading enslaved people to freedom.
- She never lost a passenger during her Underground Railroad missions.
- Harriet experienced visions and dreams, which she believed were divine guidance.
- Nelson Davis was 22 years younger than Harriet Tubman.
- She founded the Harriet Tubman Home for the Aged in Auburn, New York.
- Harriet Tubman was buried with military honors in Fort Hill Cemetery, Auburn.
This article provides a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand look at Harriet Tubman’s personal relationships and family life, ensuring young learners grasp her historical significance and humanity.
