Harriet Tubman Monument
A powerful 25-foot monument honoring abolitionist Harriet Tubman, featuring an audio narration by Queen Latifah.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Best for viewing and photos
Harriet Tubman Monument
Best Time
Best for viewing and photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A powerful 25-foot monument honoring abolitionist Harriet Tubman, featuring an audio narration by Queen Latifah.
"Stumbled upon this monument while walking around Newark, NJ today. It's visually stunning and educational too."
🎧 Listen to the Narration
Don't miss the audio experience narrated by Queen Latifah! It brings Tubman's story to life.
📚 Explore the History
Take time to read the historical timeline on the back of the monument.
Quick Facts
Rating
5 · 6 reviews
Type
Sculpture
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Shadow of a Face Monument
Harriet Tubman Square, Newark, NJ
A striking 25-foot monument celebrating Harriet Tubman's legacy of freedom and resilience.
Interactive Audio Narration
At the monument base
Listen to Queen Latifah narrate Tubman's life and the history of the Underground Railroad.
Historical Timeline
Back of the monument
Explore a detailed timeline of Harriet Tubman's life and the history of slavery in New Jersey.
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Listen to the Narration
Don't miss the audio experience narrated by Queen Latifah! It brings Tubman's story to life.
📚 Explore the History
Take time to read the historical timeline on the back of the monument.
📸 Capture the Moment
The monument is visually stunning, perfect for photos.
🚶♀️ Walk the Square
Enjoy the surrounding Harriet Tubman Square, which has undergone improvements.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Listen to the Narration
Don't miss the audio experience narrated by Queen Latifah! It brings Tubman's story to life.
📚 Explore the History
Take time to read the historical timeline on the back of the monument.
📸 Capture the Moment
The monument is visually stunning, perfect for photos.
🚶♀️ Walk the Square
Enjoy the surrounding Harriet Tubman Square, which has undergone improvements.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Harriet Tubman Monument visually stunning and highly educational. The interactive audio narration by Queen Latifah is a standout feature, bringing Tubman's story to life. Many appreciate the historical context provided, including the timeline and information on New Jersey's history with slavery. The monument's significance as a replacement for a former statue also resonates with visitors seeking to honor more inclusive historical figures.
"This monument is a simple and very historic monument to look at. Just by looking at the monument from up above while walking in Newark, I noticed just how impressive this monument was. On the back of the memorial honoring Tubam (1822-1893), there is a history of the Underground Railroad and the role of Slavery in the State of New Jersey that involved more of the general history of the issues, as New Jersey did not abolish Slavery up until 1866, with the passage of the 13th Amendment in Congress, which the state unfortunately failed to ratify due to the state's segregationist policies.
The back of the monument looks more into the life and legacy of Harriet Tubman, with a historic timeline of her life oriented to the back towards the square in her name."
Jason Keller
"Stumbled upon this monument while walking around Newark, NJ today. It’s visually stunning and educational too. I loved the interactive experience with the narrative from Queen Latifah. Learned a lot about her and black history in general. I would recommend learning and experiencing this monument!"
Brian Copes
"I was really impressed by the entire experience. They did a wonderful job with the monument and display of history and audio. A must see."
Z
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Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Harriet Tubman Monument is located in Harriet Tubman Square in downtown Newark, New Jersey, at Broad Street and Washington Place. It's accessible by public transportation, including NJ Transit buses and trains to Newark Penn Station. Driving is also an option, with several parking garages nearby.
Yes, there are several parking garages and street parking options available in the downtown Newark area near Harriet Tubman Square. It's advisable to check parking apps for real-time availability and rates.
Absolutely! Newark Penn Station is a major hub for NJ Transit trains and buses, and Harriet Tubman Square is a short walk from the station. Several local bus routes also serve the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Harriet Tubman Monument is located in a public square and is free to visit. There are no admission fees.
Harriet Tubman Square is a public space and is generally accessible during daylight hours. Specific park hours may vary, but the monument itself is an outdoor installation.
The monument and the surrounding square are designed to be accessible. Information on specific accessibility features can be found through the City of Newark's official channels.
📸 📸 Photography
Daylight hours offer the best natural light for photography. Early morning or late afternoon can provide softer light and fewer crowds.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always a good idea to be respectful of the space and any ongoing events. Commercial photography may require permits.
The monument's unique 'Shadow of a Face' design, its scale, and its historical context make it a compelling subject for photographs. The surrounding square also offers scenic backdrops.
🎫 📚 History & Education
The monument honors abolitionist Harriet Tubman, a conductor on the Underground Railroad. It replaced a statue of Christopher Columbus, symbolizing a shift in historical commemoration. 
The monument, titled 'Shadow of a Face,' was designed by architect and artist Nina Cooke John.
The 'Shadow of a Face' design by Nina Cooke John celebrates both Harriet Tubman's legacy and the lives of Newark residents, connecting their stories to Tubman's pursuit of liberty.
Yes, the monument features a historical timeline of Harriet Tubman's life and information about the role of slavery in New Jersey.
The audio narration about Harriet Tubman's life is provided by Newark's own Queen Latifah.
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