National Book Month-
Discover Cayuga County’s Rich History
October is National Book Month and celebrates the joy of reading. Whether you’re a proud bookworm, a casual reader or somewhere in between, there’s a genre out there that’s ready to entertain, educate, inspire or enlighten you! Reading cannot only stimulate the mind and help with overall brain health, it’s also a great opportunity to expand your knowledge in certain areas, such as historical accounts and the individuals associated with them.
Cayuga County is home to rich history and connections tied to influential people who shaped their world and ours today – individuals who have effected change in human, civil and women’s rights. And while an in-person visit is the best way to walk in their footsteps and share in their experiences, you can also embark on a historical journey from the comfort of your home or favorite reading nook.
Suggested Books: Influential People of Cayuga County
We’ve compiled a list of books that highlight influential people and important history tied to Cayuga County. And maybe after you’ve read these stories, you’ll be ready to plan a trip to our region to experience these legacies for yourself.
Beyond the Underground: Aunt Harriet, Moses of Her People, by Joyce Stoke Jones and Michele Jones Galvin
While many are familiar with her brave missions along the Underground Railroad, Beyond the Underground gives readers a more personal look into Harriet Tubman and the life she led. Written by her descendants, Beyond the Underground recounts tales of “Aunt Harriet’s” story, as it has been passed down through their family – further humanizing and showcasing her as “an ordinary woman who did extraordinary things.”
Plan your visit: Landmarks in Cayuga County where visitors can get closer to her legacy include: the Harriet Tubman Home (where you can see the exterior of her residence as well as the Home for the Aged, which she started to support those in need within the community); Thompson Memorial A.M.E. Zion Church, where Harriet Tubman attended church services for 22 years until her passing; and her gravesite at Fort Hill Cemetery.
Night Flyer: Harriet Tubman and the Faith Dreams of a Free People, by Tiya MilesAnother book that sets out to humanize Harriet Tubman is Night Flyer, where the author “explores beyond the stock historical grid to weave Tubman’s life into the fabric of her world.”
Plan your visit: If you’ll be in Cayuga County on Saturday, September 21, 2024, the New York State Equal Rights Heritage Center is hosting a free talk with the award-winning author and Harvard University professor! A Q&A and book signing will follow the talk.
God’s Free-Man: An American Tale of Perseverance: A Life in Service, by Ted Freeman
This historical account is written by the great-great-great-grandson of Harry and Kate Freeman – freedom-seekers who settled in and co-founded what would later to be known as the city of Auburn, NY. The book narrates the Freemans’ story and how their family made significant influence in American history – from establishing a foundational piece of the Underground Railroad called the New Guinea Negro Settlement, to forging a relationship with Harriet Tubman and Secretary of State, William Seward, to precipitating events that would make an impact on the criminal justice system.
Plan your visit: Book a GLOW Tour, led by Ted Freeman, to learn about the history of the city of Auburn and influential people who played important roles in shaping the region’s foundation and legacy.
The Agitators: Three Friends Who Fought for Abolition and Women’s Rights, by Dorothy WickendenAfter settling in Auburn, N.Y., Harriet Tubman continued her lifelong work of ensuring equality for all – alongside a band of other influential women dedicated to equal rights, abolition and women’s suffrage. Representation of these trailblazers’ legacies can be found in New York’s Finger Lakes, including Frances Seward, Emily Howland and Martha Coffin Wright, whose stories interlace and are told in the book, The Agitators.
Plan your visit: Tour the Seward House Museum for an intimate look into the Sewards’ lives and history, and arrange a visit the Howland Stone Store Museum – both of which also have ties to the Underground Railroad.
Aunt Harriet’s Underground Railroad in the Sky, by Faith Ringgold
This picture book is a great way to share the important history of the Underground Railroad with younger audiences, creatively combining imaginative elements suited for children with the very true narrative of Harriet Tubman’s missions. Aunt Harriet’s Underground Railroad in the Sky tells the tale of a girl with the ability to fly named Cassie, who is guided by Harriet Tubman along the Underground Railroad to reunite with her brother, Be Be. A wonderful read for kids, but adults will love it to!
Plan your visit: If you’ll be in Cayuga County with your little ones, visit the Schweinfurth Art Center and inquire about youth art classes that may be available – and let your child tap into their imagination, right in Harriet Tubman’s chosen hometown!