In the 10 years since the original unveiling of the Harriet Tubman statue at the Bristol Wharf, a lot of things have changed in the community and across the nation.
In recent months, Tubman received national attention when it was reported she would be added to the $20 bill. In the same time frame, Bristol Borough has been working to revitalize the waterfront and its central business district.
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On Saturday, members of the African American Historical Cultural Society of Bucks County (AAHCSBC) gathered at the wharf to commemorate the 10th anniversary of the erection of the statue that honored a key figure in the Underground Railroad.
Morrisville sculptor Jim Gafgen created the Tubman statue and William Smith did the original drawings.
In attendance was Louise Davis, 80, a lifelong resident of Bristol Borough and descend of Tubman’s father’s brother. At area events, Davis often portray Tubman to share her story.
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“Her contribution to the country in many ways was not acknowledged,” Davis said recently. “She represents the unstoppable determination in light of many obstacles to make sure that people were treated equally and more in the spirit of our Declaration of Independence.”
The service in the park also memorialized Sydney Taylor, the late president of the AAHCSBC. He was the the man who helped make the statue a reality.
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“I do thank God to have worked with him for the years I worked with him,” said Deal Wright, the current president of the AAHCSBC.
“As we began to work on this particular project, he didn’t waver,” Wright continued, mentioning Taylor’s fortitude and determination. “He had a way of making people better.”
Before the end of the ceremony, Bristol Borough Council members were present to read a public declaration regarding the statue and the passing of Taylor.
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“I want to thank everyone for allowing me to be a part of this great day,” said Ralph DiGuiseppe, the council president.
After a round of kind words, Council Vice President Betty Rodriguez read the declaration recognizing Taylor’s hard work, dedication and accomplishments.
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According to the proclamation, Taylor graduated from Bristol High School and from the University of the Arts in Philadelphia.
After a brief moment of silence, and before the movement of the event to the Community Baptist Church on Radcliffe Street, Bill Pezza, president of Bristol Borough Raising the Bar, announced that next February the Center for the Arts will be host to an African American art exhibit.
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