Tracing Black History in Upstate NY: 9 Must-See Historic Spots

From Harriet Tubman's home in Auburn to the Freedom Crossing Monument in Lewiston, these sites preserve the region's crucial role in the fight against slavery.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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Upstate New York is home to numerous historic sites that commemorate the region's important role in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad during the 1800s. This article highlights 9 must-see locations, including the Sojourner Truth Statue in Highland Falls, the Israel AME Church in Albany, the Jerry Rescue Monument in Syracuse, the North Star Underground Railroad Museum in Ausable Chasm, the Freedom Crossing Monument in Lewiston, Harriet Tubman's home in Auburn, the National Abolition Hall of Fame and Museum in Peterboro, the Old Fort House Museum in Fort Edward, and sites honoring Frederick Douglass in Rochester.

Why it matters

These historic sites preserve the stories and legacies of the brave individuals and communities in Upstate New York who played a crucial role in the fight to end slavery. By visiting these locations, people can gain a deeper understanding of the region's pivotal contributions to the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad.

The details

The article highlights several key historic sites across Upstate New York, including statues, museums, churches, and homes that were important stops along the Underground Railroad. These sites showcase the region's rich history of activism, resistance, and the pursuit of freedom for enslaved people. Many of the locations, such as the Israel AME Church in Albany and Harriet Tubman's home in Auburn, served as safe havens and meeting places for abolitionists and those seeking passage to freedom.

  • February is celebrated nationwide as Black History Month.
  • The Jerry Rescue occurred on October 1, 1851.

The players

Sojourner Truth

A former slave who became one of the most powerful voices of the abolitionist movement, known for her famous speech "Ain't I a Woman?" She was invited to the White House by President Abraham Lincoln.

Harriet Tubman

Known as the "Moses of Her People," Tubman was the most famous conductor of the Underground Railroad, helping hundreds of enslaved people escape to freedom. Her home in Auburn, New York was a key stop along the escape route.

William Seward

A New York governor, U.S. Senator, and President Lincoln's Secretary of State. Seward's home in Auburn served as a waystation for runaway slaves on the Underground Railroad.

Gerrit Smith

A powerful figure in the anti-slavery movement, whose homesite in Peterboro, New York is located near the National Abolition Hall of Fame and Museum.

Solomon Northrup

A free Black man born in Upstate New York, who was kidnapped and sold into slavery for 12 years, an experience chronicled in his memoir "12 Years a Slave."

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What they’re saying

“Ain't I a Woman?”

— Sojourner Truth

The takeaway

These historic sites in Upstate New York serve as powerful reminders of the region's pivotal role in the abolitionist movement and the Underground Railroad. By visiting these locations, people can gain a deeper appreciation for the courage, sacrifice, and perseverance of the individuals and communities who fought to end the injustice of slavery.