Harriet Tubman statue (Photo by Christal Jordan for rolling out)
When Harriet Tubman’s name is mentioned, most people visualize a solemn woman who single-handedly worked to free hundreds of slaves. She is one of the most celebrated heroes in Black history and yet we know very little about her as a woman, outside of her work as the conductor of the Underground Railroad. Tubman’s work has been celebrated but her womanhood has been erased. The Cayuga County Office of Tourism and historian Ted Freeman are dedicated to changing that narrative and educating the public on Harriet’s life including her dedication to the small community of Auburn, New York.
Freeman, a former football star, returned to his roots of Auburn to assist with telling Tubman’s story alongside her descendants and the Office of Tourism.
“Auburn was Harriet’s chosen homestead and there is so much history here I wish more people would have the opportunity to experience,” Freeman shares.
One of the biggest misconceptions about Tubman’s legacy is that she was portrayed as a solo figure who worked tirelessly for her people by herself.
“Not only was Harriet married but she was in love with her husband,” Freeman says proudly. “History doesn’t tell that side of her story and in doing that, we’ve done a great injustice to our young people. This narrative of Black men and women not working together and loving one another is false. Harriet was proud to be married to Nelson and he did important work in the struggle also. He was responsible for sharing the news that the slaves were officially free and starting the first Juneteenth celebration.”
Freeman believes that history is where young people find their identity. He says it’s important that young Black women and men know that their legacy includes working together and loving one another along with their families.
Historian Ted Freeman embraces the future with 3-month-old Kenya Jade at the homestead of Harriet Tubman. (Photo by Christal Jordan for rolling out)
“Just think how differently it would affect today’s young woman if she knew that Harriet was able to be this powerhouse and yet she still had a loving husband. Leaving those little details out is what changes our communities perspective about one another. If we celebrate the accomplishments from each but don’t realize they accomplished it together, we miss out on an opportunity to celebrate Black love,” Freeman shares.
Freeman created GLOW Tours to provide an intimate experience for tourists to visit Harriet Tubman’s homestead and to see where she worked with Secretary of State William Seward on the Underground Railroad. So many historical gems and landmarks are nestled in the picturesque county that once tourists visit, they are guaranteed to return.
“I’ve dedicated my life to telling this story and I look forward to welcoming all of Auntie Harriet’s children to come visit Auburn and learn more about her life and how her contributions made it possible for them to live with the opportunities they have today,” Freeman says.
For more information on Harriet Tubman’s homestead, visit https://glowtoursny.com and https://www.tourcayuga.com.
