Influential Couples of Cayuga County
Cayuga County has long been a hub of rich history and remarkable individuals. Among the many who have shaped the course of history are several influential couples who have played pivotal roles in pushing the abolition, equality, human rights and women’s rights movements forward. And in the present day, there are couples who are making their own mark through their business endeavors and commitment to service in the county.
In this blog post, we celebrate the influential couples whose legacies have not only shaped the past, but continue to inspire and drive progress in Cayuga County today.
You’ll also discover the destinations, landmarks or ways you can acknowledge or support these past- and present-day couples.
Historic Couples: Shaping a Legacy
Harriet Tubman-Davis and Nelson Davis: After the Civil War, Tubman settled in Auburn, NY, where she continued her work for equality, advocating for women’s suffrage and the well-being of freedom-seekers. In 1869, Harriet Tubman married her second husband, Private Nelson Charles Davis, a Civil War veteran and skilled mason who contributed to the construction of their home in Auburn, where the couple settled after their marriage. This home still stands today as part of the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park.
Harry and Kate Freeman: Harry and Kate Freeman – originally from Guinea, Africa – were taken from their homeland and enslaved before being freed by the Mansfield Decree in England. They would go on to fight in the Revolutionary War and later co-found a foundational piece of the Underground Railroad called the New Guinea Negro Settlement in Auburn, NY, helping countless others escape to freedom. The Freemans’ story is a powerful testament to resilience and leadership in the fight for freedom and justice, and their contributions remain an integral part of Cayuga County’s history. You can read more about the Freeman family in God’s Free-Man: An American Tale of Perseverance: A Life in Service, written by Pastor Ted Freeman, Jr., descendant of Harry and Kate Freeman.
William and Frances Seward: William H. Seward is best known for securing the purchase of Alaska in 1867 as U.S. Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln. However, he was also a dedicated abolitionist, alongside his equally influential wife, Frances. A passionate advocate for women’s rights, education and social reform, Frances was a key figure in Auburn’s social scene, hosting influential guests and fostering political connections. Together, the Sewards helped shape the nation’s political and social future, and their legacy endures in Cayuga County. Visitors can tour their preserved, historic home at the Seward House Museum.
Present-Day Couples: Modern-Day Impact
Gwen Webber-McLeod and Tracy McLeod: Gwen Webber-McLeod, President and CEO of Gwen, Inc., is committed to empowering emerging leaders and driving organizational transformation. With a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion and leadership development, Gwen helps clients amplify their impact while advancing the careers of women, young professionals and people of color. At the heart of Gwen’s success is the unwavering support of her husband, Tracy McLeod, who has been her steady presence for more than 40 years. Tracy’s grounding influence enables Gwen to remain focused on her dynamic goals. Together, they embody the power of partnership, with Tracy offering both emotional strength and encouragement as Gwen continues to make her professional dreams a reality and inspire others to do the same.
Beonca Louis and Jimmy Louis: Beonca and Jimmy Louis are the dynamic duo behind Louis Legacy LLC. Through their company, they empower local entrepreneurs by offering a range of digital and creative services. Together, they balance their entrepreneurial ventures with a deep dedication to uplifting the local community, creating content that connects and empowers diversity along the way. As Beonca explains: “Our favorite business projects have been those that highlight diversity in the community. It’s an honor to contribute our skills to these initiatives.”
Nick and Fran Deloia: Nick and Fran Deloia are the innovative couple behind FEAST Kitchen LLC, which produces single-ingredient purees that can enhance the flavors of food and beverage products, sauces, curries, baked goods and more. The company’s founding pillars focus on bridging the gap between food insecurity and food waste, innovative and sustainable production, sanitation and waste management, building partnerships with regional agricultural businesses, and long-term job creation to support the local economy.