Renovation work that began in May at Auburn’s AME Zion Church is progressing quickly.
Tubman Park Superintendent tells City Council work is moving along
The church, built in 1891, is the one attended by Underground Railroad leader Harriet Tubman when she moved to Auburn. It was purchased by the National Park Service as part of the Harriet Tubman National Historical Park, which opened in 2017. Auburn City Clerk Chuck Mason says park Superintendent Ahna Wilson recently came before the City Council with an update on the work.
The renovations aim to make the church look as much as it did when Tubman attended as possible, using original elements and materials where possible. The work will include lightning protection for the spire at the top of the steeple. The spire caught fire after a lightning strike in 2019.
The project also includes asbestos abatement.
Related: Renovation work underway at AME Zion Church in Auburn
Project will include the church parsonage
Renovations are also being made to the parsonage, which will be turned into a visitors center for the site.
The project has been affected by COVID-related material and contractor shortages but is expected to be completed by next summer.
The city has been holding events this year to commemorate the 200th anniversary of Tubman’s birth.
Listen to my latest Inside the FLX conversation with Auburn City Clerk Chuck Mason below.
Related: Congress OKs Tubman coins; will help fund Tubman Home
