The Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire (BHTNH), in partnership with the Greenland Historical Society (GHS), is thrilled to announce the unveiling of a historic marker honoring Ona Marie Judge Staines in Greenland, NH. This will be the Black Heritage Trail of New Hampshire’s first commemorative marker in Greenland and the first commemorative marker honoring Ona Judge.
The unveiling ceremony will take place on Saturday, May 3, at 11 AM. The marker will be located at the Greenland Parade Gazebo, and parking will be available at Greenland Central School. This marker is intentionally placed in a central location so that it can be seen by the public.
In 1796, Ona Judge made a daring choice that defied the most powerful man in America, the President. Enslaved by George and Martha Washington, she risked everything to claim her freedom. Despite relentless attempts by the president to recapture her, Ona refused to return to bondage, finding refuge in New Hampshire.
Born enslaved to Martha Washington, Ona Judge served as her personal maid and seamstress during George Washington’s presidency. The Washingtons, aware of Pennsylvania laws that could grant her freedom, took steps to prevent her emancipation. In Philadelphia, Ona encountered free Black residents who helped her escape. In an 1845 interview, she recalled:
“Whilst they were packing up to go to Virginia, I was packing to go, I didn’t know where... I had friends among the colored people of Philadelphia… and left while they were eating dinner.”
She escaped by coastal sloop to Portsmouth, where she was later recognized. George Washington sent his nephew to capture her, but local residents protected her. Despite repeated efforts by the Washingtons, Ona remained free in New Hampshire until her death.
Preserve Black History in New Hampshire