Harriet Tubman was a true hero. As a conductor on the Underground Railroad, she led countless enslaved people to freedom, risking her own life time and time again. Her bravery and unwavering dedication to liberation cemented her place in history.
This article explores the various monuments and memorials erected to honor her extraordinary life and legacy. It also highlights the collaborative spirit that fueled the creation of these important sites that ensure her story continues to inspire generations to come.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument
President Obama created the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Monument on March 25, 2013. Its location in Maryland is significant because it was the landscape of Tubman’s early life, where she lived, worked, and eventually escaped enslavement.
The Conservation Fund, a nonprofit land conservation group, donated 480 acres to the National Park Service (NPS) to form the national monument. This land is key to understanding Tubman’s early life and the environment she knew. The Conservation Fund also protected 17 acres for the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park.
Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources created the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park to honor her legacy.
The park includes exhibits and programs that tell the story of Tubman’s life and the operations of the Underground Railroad. Visitors can immerse themselves in her world, learning about the challenges she faced and the triumphs she achieved.
It’s important to recognize that Tubman’s legacy has been honored at the state level, as well as through national monuments.
Harriet Tubman National Historical Parks
Harriet Tubman’s life is celebrated at two National Historical Parks, one in Maryland and one in New York.
In December 2014, Congress established the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park in Maryland and the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park in New York. President Obama signed the National Defense Authorization Act, which included the provision to create the parks.
The parks focus on different periods in Tubman’s life. The Maryland park explores her early life and her work on the Underground Railroad. The New York park highlights her later years, including her work as a suffragist and humanitarian.
Having multiple sites dedicated to Tubman underscores the breadth and depth of her contributions and allows for a more comprehensive understanding of her life story.
Why Harriet Tubman Monuments Matter
Monuments dedicated to Harriet Tubman do more than just honor her memory. They are important reminders of American slavery and the long fight to abolish it. They ensure Tubman’s incredible story is never forgotten.
When people visit these monuments, they can reflect on the themes of courage, resilience, and social justice. They encourage people to think critically about the ongoing struggle for equality and liberation.
These projects also show a commitment to preserving and sharing African American history. It’s critical to continue to fund and support these sites so that people can learn about and reflect on Tubman’s legacy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any monuments for Harriet Tubman?
Absolutely! Recognition of Harriet Tubman’s legacy is growing, and thankfully, there are several monuments dedicated to her. One of the most prominent is the “Harriet Tubman Memorial” in Auburn, New York, which depicts her leading a group of enslaved people to freedom. There’s also a statue of her in Cambridge, Maryland, her birthplace, as well as a monument on Boston University’s campus. These monuments serve as important reminders of her courage and commitment to liberation.
Where is Harriet Tubman’s tombstone?
Harriet Tubman is buried in Fort Hill Cemetery in Auburn, New York. Her tombstone is a simple, yet powerful tribute to her life. It’s a popular site for visitors who want to pay their respects to this remarkable woman. The inscription on her tombstone reflects her dedication to freedom and her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. Visiting her gravesite is a deeply moving experience for many, and it’s a chance to connect with her story on a personal level.
In Closing
The Harriet Tubman monuments and parks scattered across the United States are more than just statues and green spaces. They’re vital reminders of a remarkable woman who risked everything to help others find freedom.
These sites offer invaluable opportunities to learn about Tubman’s courage, resilience, and unwavering commitment to justice.
I encourage you to visit these monuments, explore the parks, and delve deeper into the extraordinary life and legacy of Harriet Tubman.