Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey — Attraction in Cape May

I wish, oh I wish that I could give this museum 5 stars because the intentionality behind it is beautiful. Cape May has tons of history when it comes to the African American community and Harriet Tubman which you would never know by looking up their demographic data. So I was understandably, excited to visit this museum. I’m not sure how long it’s been open but it appears to be relatively new and still getting settled into the space. It is small (which is totally fine) and mainly composed of quotes from the late Tubman. I was hoping that there would be more physical artifacts or evidence surrounding her time the town. Possibly having pictures of the headquarters she set up, artifacts that were there, anything more tangible than simple quotes on the wall would’ve been great to see. There are options to either do a self guided tour, or one with a tour guide which is essentially a sit down in the main museum area where you’re essentially told about the information/quotes around you. The tour guide is awesome, he does present the information in an exciting way albeit it’s still disappointing because there’s not much there.

To top it off there was a cardboard SONY television box in the main museum hall. Why? Who knows. It seems that they just got a TV but patrons don’t need to see the cardboard box, especially in a space that’s supposed to be honoring Harrier Tubman. I truly hope they find somewhere else to store it.

All in all, if the museum is new and still “loading” I hope it can bring in more tangible history for patrons to see. If not, it is a bit disappointing. I did enjoy learning the bit that we did about her time in cape may. Personally. My favorite part about the museum was the timeline wall that dates a lot of the history of black people in Cape May. Although it’s very disheartening, being able to learn about it in the space was...

This review is about our treatment upon arrival. We can't say anything about the actual museum because unfortunately we never got to see it! The woman who greeted us at the door promptly shuffled us outside so we didn't disturb the tour. She informed us the next tour did not start for a half hour. We weren't really interested in an actual tour but when we told her that her attitude changed for the worse (not that it was very cordial from the start). She said we would still have to pay the entrance fee and charged us $22 for the two of us (later online we read that it's $10 each but perhaps that has just not been updated). We had no problem with paying anyway and paid her with cash. Then she told us we would still have to come back in a half hour. We may have misunderstood the situation but it really was not explained either. So, we said that we will just come back later, thinking we would get lunch first. She turned around in a huff to go back in with our money as she says, "well, I'm not going to stand here and argue with you so come in". We were taken back by this and my friend even said "look, we're not trying to upset the apple cart". At this point, we said we will just take our money back and come back another time. My friend took the money and as we turned this woman slammed the door! We were not rude to her at all but this was certainly not acceptable treatment under any circumstances and not how the museum should be represented. Its a shame but we have no intention of...

Our group of four people purchased tickets in advance, which is essential. Arrive on time because the tour starts promptly; many are scheduled throughout the day on the hour. Our guide, Crystal, possessed extensive knowledge and enthusiasm for Harriet Tubman and for U.S. history of that period. She involved participants of all ages, making it an interactive experience. The paintings, maps, masks, illustrations, video, and other displays reinforced our learning. Due to the timing of the tours, we were not permitted to stay and explore the museum's three rooms. Another 30 minutes would have made a big difference - we felt rushed out the door. For this reason, I gave four stars and not five. I hope the administration and/or board will rethink the timing which impacts visitors' experiences. I feel the history of the slave trade, which involved multiple continents and continues to effect our world, should be taught in every school so citizen can fully appreciate the linkages between the past and...