Born into slavery around 1822, Harriet Tubman escaped to freedom and found her way into the Union Army, where she served as a distinguished spy, scout and nurse. She was the first woman to lead an armed raid into enemy territory. Amazing! Along with Colonel Montgomery, she helped to free over 750 slaves along the Combahee River in South Carolina.
With other pioneers, she helped establish the Underground Railroad, and is credited with leading some 120 slaves to freedom on the perilous and invisible path to freedom.
Harriet Tubman settled in Auburn. She opened her home for a time as a shelter for women. She established the John Brown Hall, an infirmary that provided free healthcare. And, she founded a home where indigent former slaves could age in peace and dignity.
The Harriet Tubman Home continues with restoration. Visitors can tour other buildings, and a visitor’s center tells the story of Harriet’s legacy. It includes a timeline of Harriet’s life, from cradle to the grave, along with significant events in American and world history.
Harriett Tubman is buried nearby in the historic Fort Hill Cemetery in the heart of the city of Auburn.
For more information:
Harriet Tubman Home
https://harriethouse.org
New York History Net
https://www.nyhistory.com/harriettubman/
