Harriet McClintock Marshall facts for kids

Harriet McClintock Marshall (born August 14, 1840 – died July 25, 1925) was an important person who helped people escape slavery. She was known as a "conductor" on the Underground Railroad. This was a secret network that helped enslaved people find freedom.

Harriet's home in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, was a "safe house." This meant it was a secret stop where people could rest and hide. The Wesley Union African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church and other homes in Harrisburg also helped. Harriet gave shelter, food, and clothes to those seeking freedom. Her husband, Elisha Marshall, was also a big help. He had been enslaved himself and fought in the American Civil War. He often provided transportation for people on their journey to freedom.

Harriet and Elisha also helped create a monument. This monument honors the United States Colored Troops, who were African American soldiers. It is located in Lincoln Cemetery in Harrisburg. Harriet and Elisha are buried there too.

Harriet's Early Life and Family

Harriet McClintock Marshall was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Her birthday was August 14, 1840. Her parents were Henry McClintock and Catherine (Yellets) McClintock. Catherine was born around 1802 or 1803. She was from Highspire, Pennsylvania.

Catherine McClintock had both German and African American family. She was also a founder of the Wesley Union African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. Harriet had a sister named Catherine "Kate" McClintock White. She also had two half-sisters, Mariah Williams Powell and Elizabeth Williams Kelly. They were from her mother's first marriage.

Harriet went to the German School. She later became a teacher. She also worked for the Eby family in Harrisburg. Harriet and her mother were both active in the Underground Railroad. They worked hard to help others.

Harriet and Elisha: A Partnership for Freedom

Harriet met Elisha Marshall when he was traveling north on the Underground Railroad. They got married in 1864. They had a son named Rev. Dr. William H. Marshall. He was born in 1865 and died in 1916. William became a teacher, a principal, and a pastor for the A.M.E. Zion Church. Their daughter, Harriet "Ella," married Morris H. Layton.

Both Harriet and Elisha worked for the Eby family. Their shared experiences and dedication made them a strong team.

Helping Hands: The Underground Railroad in Harrisburg

Harriet was a member of the Wesley Union African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church. This church was a very important "station" on the Underground Railroad. It offered a safe place, food, and clothing to people escaping slavery.

Harriet and her husband Elisha Marshall lived in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Elisha had freed himself from slavery. Both Harriet and Elisha were very active in the Underground Railroad. Elisha often helped transport people to safety. Their house, located at Calder and Front Street, was a stopping place. From there, people would often go to the church at Third and Mulberry Streets. Other people in Harrisburg also helped. Mary and Dr. William M. Jones were active members too. They lived in Tanner's Alley and were also part of the Wesley Union church.

Elisha Marshall's Service in the Civil War

During the American Civil War, Elisha Marshall served in the Union Army. He was part of the 24th United States Colored Infantry Regiment. He joined Company D of this regiment on February 15, 1865. He was promoted to corporal during his time in service.

His regiment was in Washington, D.C., and later in Virginia. They guarded Confederate prisoners at Point Lookout, Maryland. After that, they went to Roanoke, Virginia. There, they helped distribute supplies and keep order. Elisha's service ended on October 1, 1865, in Richmond, Virginia.

Harriet helped build a monument for African American Civil War veterans. This monument is in the Lincoln Cemetery in Harrisburg.

Harriet's Legacy

Harriet McClintock Marshall passed away in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. She died on July 25, 1925. She is buried at the Lincoln Cemetery. This cemetery is in the Penbrook section of the city.

Harriet was honored in a mural in Harrisburg. This mural shows important African Americans from the city. Cesar Viveros designed the mural, which is on The Jackson House Hotel. Harriet's life shows how one person can make a huge difference. She helped many people find freedom and built a better future.