The Voices Keeping Harriet Tubman’s Story Alive in Cayuga County
“Living where Harriet Tubman lived out her life in freedom is amazing because
we get to see all of the history that not many other people get to see.”
Enrique and Mariella Hernandez, Auburn High School Students*
During a time when there are increasing attempts to remove or diminish the achievements, struggles and triumphs of key historical figures like Harriet Tubman, Cayuga County remains committed to authentically telling her story. We will continue to provide a full and honest portrayal of her experience and contributions to the Underground Railroad, and the life she led after freeing herself and many others from slavery.
Beyond what Cayuga County does to celebrate her, there are many efforts being made on a larger scale to keep her legacy alive: Consider the films, television shows and documentaries chronicling her life’s work; the artwork and sculptures created in her honor; and the posthumous awards she continues to receive for her bravery and contributions to a country that was not kind to her in her lifetime. (If you’re interested in reading more about these acknowledgments, check out our “Harriet Tubman’s Revered Legacy Thrives” blog.)
Alongside other regional destinations that honor her legacy (like Dorchester, Maryland), Cayuga County invites visitors to walk in Harriet’s footsteps to explore the places she lived and made her mark, visit landmarks that tell her story, and support local businesses and organizations that continue to uplift it.
“Harriet Tubman’s work throughout her entire life and as an abolitionist is still incredibly important and influential today.”
Kate Grindstaff, Education and Outreach Coordinator, Seward House Museum
Here in Cayuga County, individuals and organizations are using their voices, talents and missions to keep Harriet Tubman’s legacy alive:
- Storytellers like Reverend Paul Carter share Harriet Tubman’s life, journey and triumphs through tours at the Harriet Tubman Home property, where visitors can walk the land she once owned and view the exteriors of her home, barn and the Home for the Aged.
- Spiritual leaders such as Reverend Paris Price, Elder of the Harriet Tubman Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, uplift the community through worship and a Civil Rights-inspired walking group promoting health and empowerment called the Harriet Heritage Trekkers.
- Events like the Cayuga Film Festival honor powerful storytelling and present the Harriet Tubman Freedom Award to artists whose work reflects the enduring spirit of Tubman herself.
- Artists such as Arthur Hutchinson keep her spirit visible through public art. His award-winning mural, Harriet Tubman: Her Life in Freedom, located at the corner of Genesee and North Streets, serves as a vibrant reminder of the pride this community holds in preserving her legacy.
“Living in the same town where Harriet Tubman found freedom and built her home is definitely something that I am proud of.”
Laiken Wilson, Owner, Caiken Baked Goods
These are just some of the people and places helping to lead the charge in honoring Harriet Tubman’s story in Cayuga County – and we encourage you to experience it for yourself.
But even if you’re not able to visit in person just yet, there are plenty of ways to connect with her story from wherever you are:
- Plug into our podcast, Walk in Her Footsteps: Harriet Tubman’s Life in Auburn, NY, where local voices continue to uplift her legacy.
- Explore the Underground Railroad Tour app – you don’t need to be in Auburn to enjoy the stories and audio tours of local landmarks.
- Pick up a book and dive deeper into Harriet Tubman’s life and the people connected to her.
“Harriet Tubman’s legacy is reflected in Auburn – I think the attitude of the civilians that live here actually encapsulate her legacy.”
Justin Harris, Harriet Tubman Tour Guide
Learn more and view more quotes and videos at https://www.tourcayuga.com/harriet-tubman/pride-of-place/
*Quotes have been edited for brevity or clarity.