MD Approves $1 Million for Acquisition of 18th Century Cabin Used as Model for Uncle Tom's Cabin

On Wednesday, March 1, Governor Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. announced MD Board of Public Works approval of $1,005,000 in Program Open Space funding for the acquisition of an 18th century residence and an attached log cabin that was once the home of Josiah Henson, a former slave and abolitionist who was the model for the main character in Harriet Beecher Stowe's novel, "Uncle Tom's Cabin." The rare example of a perfectly preserved slave quarter, including original oak beams still covered with bark, sits on a 1.02-acre parcel in Montgomery County. The property will eventually be open for public visitation including structured interpretive programs.