Who is Nelson Davis? Biography , Early Life , Career , More Facts
Nelson Davis is remembered as the second husband of Harriet Tubman, one of the most iconic figures in American history. Harriet Tubman is celebrated for her work as an abolitionist and her bravery in leading enslaved people to freedom on the Underground Railroad. While Nelson Davis lived a quieter life compared to his famous wife, his story is still one of resilience, dedication, and partnership. Together, Nelson and Harriet created a home and supported each other through life’s challenges.
Who is Nelson Davis?
Nelson Davis was a Civil War veteran, farmer, and husband of Harriet Tubman. Born into slavery, he later gained his freedom and fought in the Union Army during the Civil War. After the war, Nelson moved to Auburn, New York, where he met and married Harriet Tubman. The couple shared a life of hard work, running a farm and brick-making business while also adopting and raising a child together.
Though Nelson Davis is less known than his wife, his contributions to their shared life and his military service make him an important part of American history.
Bio/Wiki
- Full Name: Nelson Davis (also known as Nelson Charles)
- Date of Birth: Circa 1840
- Place of Birth: Elizabeth City, North Carolina, USA
- Profession: Farmer, Soldier (Union Army), Brickmaker
- Known For: Husband of Harriet Tubman
Early Life and Education
Nelson Davis was born around 1840 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina. He was born into slavery, living under harsh conditions like many African Americans during that time. As a young man, he escaped from slavery during the Civil War and made his way to freedom.
In 1863, Nelson joined the Union Army to fight against slavery. He became a private in Company G of the 8th United States Colored Infantry, a regiment made up of African American soldiers who played a crucial role in the Union’s victory. His time in the military taught him discipline and gave him a sense of purpose.
Nelson Davis Age, Weight, Height, and Appearance
Nelson Davis’s exact height and weight are not recorded, but historical accounts suggest he was a strong and hardworking man. His time in the army and his work as a farmer and brickmaker show that he was physically capable and industrious. Nelson lived until the age of 48, passing away in 1888.
Parents and Siblings
There is little information available about Nelson Davis’s parents or siblings. As he was born into slavery, many records about his family were likely not kept. Despite the lack of family ties in his early life, Nelson later created his own family with Harriet Tubman in Auburn, New York.
Nelson Davis Nationality
Nelson Davis was American. Born in North Carolina, he lived in several states during his life, including New York, where he settled with Harriet Tubman after the Civil War.
Career Journey
Nelson Davis had several careers throughout his life.
- Soldier: During the Civil War, he served as a private in the Union Army’s 8th United States Colored Infantry. His service contributed to the fight for freedom and the abolition of slavery.
- Farmer: After the war, Nelson and Harriet Tubman ran a farm in Auburn, New York. Together, they worked hard to grow crops and support themselves.
- Brickmaker: Nelson also co-ran a brick-making business with Harriet. This venture provided additional income for their family and demonstrated their entrepreneurial spirit.
Awards and Notable Works
While Nelson Davis did not receive any public awards during his lifetime, his service in the Union Army is a testament to his bravery and commitment to freedom. Being part of the 8th United States Colored Infantry placed him among the many African American soldiers who fought for justice during the Civil War.
Nelson Davis Net Worth
Details about Nelson Davis’s financial situation are not available. He lived modestly with Harriet Tubman, running their farm and brick-making business to support their family. Their focus was not on accumulating wealth but on working hard and helping others.
Family and Children
Nelson Davis married Harriet Tubman on March 18, 1869, at the Central Presbyterian Church in Auburn, New York. Despite their 22-year age difference, they had a strong and loving relationship.
The couple adopted a daughter named Gertie Davis, who completed their family. Nelson and Harriet worked together to provide a stable and loving home for Gertie, raising her in Auburn.
Ethnicity and Religion
Nelson Davis was African American. Like many African Americans of his time, religion likely played an important role in his life. Harriet Tubman was deeply religious, and it is probable that faith was a shared value in their household.
Filmography
Nelson Davis did not have a career in film or entertainment. However, his life story is often mentioned in films, books, and documentaries about Harriet Tubman. His role as her husband and supporter has been recognized as an important part of her legacy.
Legacy and Impacts
Nelson Davis’s legacy lies in his partnership with Harriet Tubman and his contributions to their shared life. Together, they built a home, supported their family, and worked to create a better future.
Nelson’s military service in the Civil War also adds to his legacy. As a soldier in the Union Army, he fought for freedom and equality, helping to bring an end to slavery in the United States. His life serves as a reminder of the countless unsung heroes who contributed to the fight for justice.
Cause of Death
Nelson Davis passed away in 1888 at the age of 48. The exact cause of his death is not widely documented, but his early passing left Harriet Tubman as the sole head of their household.
Interesting Facts
- Civil War Soldier: Nelson Davis served in the Union Army during the Civil War, fighting to end slavery and protect the Union.
- Entrepreneur: After the war, he and Harriet Tubman co-ran a farm and a brick-making business in Auburn, New York.
- Adopted Father: Nelson and Harriet adopted a daughter, Gertie, creating a loving family despite their challenging circumstances.
- Partnership with Harriet Tubman: Nelson supported Harriet Tubman, one of the most iconic figures in American history, in her efforts to help others and advocate for equality.
FAQs
- Who was Nelson Davis?
Nelson Davis was a Civil War veteran, farmer, and the second husband of Harriet Tubman. - What did Nelson Davis do for a living?
Nelson worked as a soldier, farmer, and brickmaker during his life. - Did Nelson Davis and Harriet Tubman have children?
Yes, they adopted a daughter named Gertie Davis. - What is Nelson Davis’s legacy?
Nelson’s legacy includes his military service, his partnership with Harriet Tubman, and his contributions to their family and community. - When did Nelson Davis die?
Nelson Davis passed away in 1888 at the age of 48.
Conclusion
Nelson Davis may not be as famous as Harriet Tubman, but his life is still an inspiring story of courage, hard work, and dedication. From escaping slavery to fighting in the Civil War and building a family with one of America’s greatest heroes, Nelson Davis left a legacy worth remembering.
His partnership with Harriet Tubman highlights the power of love and teamwork in overcoming life’s challenges. Together, they worked to create a better future, not just for themselves but for the generations that followed. Nelson Davis’s story reminds us that even quiet contributions can have a lasting impact.
