History Alive! Performance: Harriet Tubman

Tubman was born into slavery in Maryland but escaped through the Underground Railroad in 1849. She then became the most famous leader of that network, aiding slaves in their escape to the free states and Canada. When the Civil War erupted, her underground experiences and knowledge of covert operations made her a valuable resource to federal officers. She served as a spy, nurse, scout, and guide for Union troops and was present at the ill-fated assault of Fort Wagner by the 54th Massachusetts in South Carolina.

Harriet Tubman will be portrayed by Ms. Ilene Evans,  a resident of Thomas, WV.  Evans performs, teaches, and lectures throughout the United States and overseas. She recently toured the Middle East and Columbia for the United States Embassy to share African American Culture. Her work is educational, entertaining, and enjoyable for all ages.

Evans is co-founder of Voices from the Earth, a non-profit arts organization and has served as the President of the West Virginia Storytelling Guild. She has also been the featured vocalist and storyteller for Peter and the Wolf with the Wheeling Symphony Orchestra. Ms. Evans’ original work, Climbing up the Beanstalk, was adapted for stage by director Thomas Reese and performed at the Cincinnati State Community College.  She is included in the West Virginia Artist Roster and the West Virginia Humanities Council History Alive program. Current projects include Behind Enemy Lines a look at Harriet Tubman’s role in the Civil War, as a freedom fighter. She also portrays lesser known African American heroines such as Memphis Tennessee Garrison, Coralie Franklin Cook, Susie King Taylor and Carrie Williams.