AUBURN -- It was on March 10, 1913, that Harriet Tubman passed away at the age of 95 at her South Street home, leaving behind fitting final words: "I go to prepare a place for you."

During her life, Tubman had many roles, all of which reflected what was perhaps her best known quality, her care and concern for others.

Tubman spent her life caring for others, working diligently during the abolitionist movement to help slaves escape the South and donating her South Street property for a home for the elderly and indigent. Tubman also served as a scout and nurse during the Civil War.

But it was her abolitionist work and repeated risky visits to the South to help slaves escape that would earn her the title, "The Moses of her People." Considering all she did in her life, it is only fitting that Tubman is recognized with a day of remembrance.

In 1990, Congress passed into law that March 10, the anniversary of her death, be designated as

Harriet Tubman Day.

Christine Carter, of the Harriet Tubman Home, said that within the AME Zion Church the day has been celebrated since at least 2000 and the celebration has been an annual staple at the Tubman home since 2003. This is a day to stop and reflect on all Tubman did.

"We do something every year," Carter said. "We really try to get the schools involved and get the kids out here and involved in this."

Among the children involved in the afternoon's celebration were the Genesee African Dancers from Genesee Elementary School's after school program, who performed several dances.

For more, read Tuesday's Citizen