Nathaniel “Nace” Hopkins
Nathaniel "Nace" Hopkins
Nathaniel “Nace” Hopkins, known as "Uncle Nace," was a man of resilience, leadership, and vision. Born into slavery around 1830 in Trappe, Maryland, his life was marked by a determination to uplift his community.
Nathaniel “Nace” Hopkins, known as "Uncle Nace," was a man of resilience, leadership, and vision. Born into slavery around 1830 in Trappe, Maryland, his life was marked by a determination to uplift his community. From serving in the Civil War to advocating for education and spearheading one of Maryland’s longest-running Emancipation Day celebrations, Hopkins left a lasting imprint on Talbot County’s history.
A Soldier for Freedom
Despite his status as an enslaved person, Hopkins enlisted in the United States Colored Troops (USCT) during the Civil War in 1863. His service in the Union Army was brief—he was discharged in 1864 due to illness—but his commitment to the cause of freedom did not end there. Returning to Trappe, Hopkins became a guiding force for newly freed African Americans in southern Talbot County, working to ensure they had access to education and a strong sense of community.
Building a Brighter Future
Hopkins understood that education was key to empowerment. In 1878, he helped establish Trappe’s first Black school, ensuring that children in the community had access to learning. He was also instrumental in the incorporation of the African Church, which later became Scotts United Methodist Church, a cornerstone of Trappe’s Black community.
Founder of Emancipation Day
One of Hopkins’ most enduring legacies is Talbot County’s Emancipation Day celebration. In 1867, he organized the first event to commemorate Maryland’s abolition of slavery, which occurred on November 1, 1864. Unlike the national Emancipation Proclamation, which freed enslaved people in rebelling states, Maryland abolished slavery by a popular vote—making it a significant moment in state history.
Hopkins led the annual celebration with a parade, church services, and community gatherings filled with music, food, and speeches. The tradition, now known as Uncle Nace Day or Nace Hopkins Day, remains the longest continuous Emancipation Day celebration on Maryland’s Eastern Shore.
Remembering Hopkins Today
Nathaniel Hopkins’ impact did not fade with time. Today, his contributions are honored with a historical marker in Trappe, and his final resting place stands near the intersection of Ocean Gateway (US 50) and Barber Road.
His story is one of perseverance and dedication—ensuring that freedom was not just a moment in history, but a foundation for future generations. The spirit of Uncle Nace lives on in the community he helped shape, reminding us that history is not just something we remember—it’s something we carry forward.
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