Historic Home in Auburn

The of Harriet Tubman began in 1857 when she moved from Ontario to Auburn, New York with her family. It was William H. Seward, close confidant and business associate of President Lincoln, who provided the home for her. It was a two story brick home that was later sold to her for a modest sum. This was illegal at the time because Tubman was an African American.

In 1836 Tubman led a raid by African American soldiers up the Comcahee River in South America. It was here she met a soldier named Nelson Davis who later became her husband. The Sewards were among those who attended the wedding. They lived together in the Tubman's house until Nelson died in 1888. In 1896 Tubman was able to buy the 25 acres surrounding the land for just under $1500. She was unable to afford the mortgage payment on the land basd on her $20 per month payment from the government, so she deeded the property to the local church in 1903. In 1908, Tubman opened the home and for the remaining years of her life, there were at least a dozen people with her in the home at any time.

The original brick home was later demolished, but the frame still stands. The home continued to be open a few years following Tubman's death, but was later closed. It was vacant from 1928 until it was demolished in 1944. It was the AME Zion church that held the fundraiser in which money was raised to restore the home. In 1953 the restoration was complete and the home was dedicated as a memorial to Tubman and her work.

There are now two buildings on the site, the Library and the assembly hall. Some of the original pieces of furniture Tubman had in her home are on display for visitors to see. The home is open to tours Tuesday through Friday from 11 am until 4 pm. Saturdays the home can be viewed by appointment only. The property has extended hours during Black History Month. Every year on Memorial Day weekend special events are held to celebrate Tubman's life and history.

The 26 acre property continues to receive no outside funding to remain open. The memorial is able to remain open through the generous donations of organizations and people who support the mission of the property. There are numerous volunteer opportunities and anyone can help with the programs the home runs, as well as the upkeep and maintenance of the property. Financial contributions are always welcome and will support additions to the library. The property is especially interested in Tubman artifacts because so much disappeared during the years the home was abandoned.

If you are interested in visiting the museum, you should look forward to an educational experiences. School groups are welcome and those who would like to share an important part of American history with children should plan a trip to the home.

Her home continues to be a dedication to Tubman's love for her fellow man. Even though she spent a good portion of her life with a bounty on her life for harboring and helping slaves, she continued to abide by her personal doctrine of "Love, Faith, and Joy.''