Isn’t it amazing how a once-barren traffic island has transformed into the Harriet Tubman Memorial right here in Manhattan? This is also known as Harriet Tubman Triangle. It honors the incredible life of abolitionist Harriet Tubman. The transformation included landscaping with plants native to both New York and Maryland. This symbolizes the land Tubman and her Underground Railroad passengers traversed.
This memorial is a 13-foot bronze and Chinese granite sculpture. Alison Saar created this masterpiece. It was unveiled on November 13, 2008. Imagine the excitement at the unveiling ceremony. Parks and Recreation Commissioner Adrian Benepe and Congressman Charles Rangel were among those present.
The Harriet Tubman Memorial depicts Tubman striding forward. But roots pull at her skirt. These roots symbolize slavery’s grip. Look closely at her skirt. It is adorned with images of those she helped escape. The base features scenes from her life. These alternate with traditional quilting symbols.
Saar wanted to capture Tubman’s spirit. She hoped to depict her compassion and fearlessness. The statue became like a locomotive. This represents an unstoppable force. Despite bounties on her head she continued her work. Even after the Civil War she kept going.
The statue faces south intentionally. Saar envisioned it as a call to action. She wanted it to inspire compassion and volunteerism. Some felt it should face north toward the Underground Railroad. But Tubman’s journey was both ways. It went back and forth.
The Harriet Tubman Memorial received an Award for Excellence in Design. The Public Design Commission gave this award in 2004. It recognized the traffic island and the statue.
The maquette for the Harriet Tubman Memorial stands 22 1/2 inches tall. It is part of the collection of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The roots trailing behind her represent enslaved people. They uprooted themselves on their journey to freedom. Tubman helped uproot the slave system itself.
The locks and keys symbolize unlocking freedom. The quilt blocks on the platform’s edge depict scenes. These include figures with an angel and people holding hands. They tell stories of hope and resilience.
Alison Saar once said she wanted to honor Tubman’s compassion. She wanted to inspire compassion in all of us. This monument serves as a powerful reminder of her legacy. It encourages us to act with the same courage and empathy. The Harriet Tubman Memorial stands as a symbol of fortitude and freedom. It is right here in Harlem. It is more than just a statue. It is a testament to an extraordinary life. It is an enduring call to action.