A Local Legacy

Solomon Northup Day is celebrated annually in Saratoga Springs, New York on the third Saturday in July. Founder Renee Moore, a Skidmore College Alumni, organizes the event to bring forth awareness in the struggle of freedom for African-Americans in America's past and present.

Solomon Northup was a born a free, black man in Minerva, New York on July 10, 1808. He was the primary author of the 1853 memoir, "12 Years a Slave", a narrative that told the story of his abduction. Northup worked several jobs but became a well-known fiddler. He played the violin throughout the city and was sought after for entertainment at local dances. After being approached by two men with a lucrative job opportunity, he was tricked, drugged, and sold into slavery in Washington D.C.

Solomon Northup

Skidmore College Entrance

Broadway and Congress

The book examines first hand details of Northup's journey and has been validated for accuracy by the Smithsonian Institute. It is a documentation of a man who witnessed the two sides of freedom and enslavement during that period in history.

Soloman Northup Day is a celebration of freedom that features scholars, historians, films, youth, and activities. A symbol of remembrance was erected on the corner of Broadway and Congress Street in Downtown Saratoga in 1999. The 2013 film, "12 Years A Slave" is an adaptation of the memoirs, that introduced the story to a national and international audience.

"The celebration of this day remains a way of remembering so we, as Americans don't forget how far we have come and encourage youth to speak-up for human freedom and justice," said Renee Moore.

President Trump has declared January 2018 as National Slavery and Human Trafficking month. The dispicable reality is that this type of behavior continues to be more prevelent in our world today than it was in the past.

For more information on Soloman Northup Day, visit www.Skidmore.edu/Soloman-Northup-Day/.