The Empire State has added another gem to its already impressive collection of parks, historic sites, and recreational trails. The new addition, New York’s Latest State Park Honors Abolitionist Sojourner Truth, is dedicated to the remarkable life and legacy of Sojourner Truth, a pivotal figure in the abolitionist and women’s rights movements. This park not only provides a space for recreation and natural beauty but also serves as a vital educational resource, allowing visitors to connect with a significant chapter in American history.
The New York’s Latest State Park Honors Abolitionist Sojourner Truth project, a $13.5 million investment, transforms a former industrial site into a vibrant public space. Located in Ulster County along the majestic Hudson River, the park spans over 500 acres, primarily within Kingston, with a portion extending into Ulster. The landscape is dramatic and compelling, characterized by towering 150-foot limestone and sandstone cliffs that plunge towards the waterway, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The park also features a prominent stop along the celebrated Empire State Trail, making it easily accessible for hikers and cyclists exploring the region.
Joshua Laird, Executive Director of the Palisades Interstate Parks Commission, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating, "We are thrilled that New York’s Latest State Park Honors Abolitionist Sojourner Truth and her powerful legacy as an abolitionist and voice for women’s rights. We look forward to telling her story and to interpreting the reclamation of this former industrial site into a beautiful and dramatic landscape overlooking the Hudson River."
Sojourner Truth’s life story is one of resilience, courage, and unwavering commitment to justice. Born into slavery in Ulster County in 1797, originally named Isabella Baumfree, she endured the hardships of enslavement until claiming her freedom in 1826, a year before the legal abolition of slavery in New York State. Her fight for freedom didn’t end there; she became a powerful advocate for human rights. One of her most notable achievements was successfully winning a court case to regain custody of her son, who had been illegally sold into slavery. During the Civil War, she actively recruited soldiers for the Union Army, further demonstrating her dedication to the cause of freedom and equality. Her tireless advocacy and impactful contributions led to an invitation to the White House in 1864 to meet with President Abraham Lincoln, a testament to her influence and the respect she garnered.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul emphasized the significance of the park’s location and its connection to Sojourner Truth’s roots, stating, "It is fitting such a magnificent property with its cliffs and Hudson shoreline bears the name of a remarkable woman who started life right here in Ulster County."
The opening of New York’s Latest State Park Honors Abolitionist Sojourner Truth marks a milestone for Kingston, becoming its first state park. It is also the first state park to open in New York since 2019, signaling a renewed commitment to preserving natural spaces and providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The park’s dedication follows the erection of a statue honoring Truth at the Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park in Highland, Ulster County, 19 months prior, further solidifying her recognition in the region.
Beyond its dedication to Sojourner Truth, the park also acknowledges and interprets the history of the Esopus tribe of the Lenape people. The Esopus were the original inhabitants of this land, calling it home until their displacement in the 17th century. The park will provide visitors with opportunities to learn about their history, culture, and connection to the land, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the area’s past.
State Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid highlighted the park’s multifaceted purpose, stating, "In addition to bringing [Truth’s] story to visitors, this park also will allow for interpretation of the site’s industrial and indigenous history and will help protect the ecology of the Hudson River."
The initial phase of the park’s development, expected to be completed in the spring, includes the addition of limited parking and a network of hiking trails for visitors to explore. However, the majority of the park will remain closed to the public during this initial development phase. State Parks, Scenic Hudson, and the Palisades Interstate Park Commission are actively seeking public input on the park’s future development, aiming to ensure that it effectively honors Truth’s legacy and serves the community’s needs. This collaborative approach will allow the park to evolve into a space that is both meaningful and accessible to all.
The establishment of New York’s Latest State Park Honors Abolitionist Sojourner Truth is more than just the creation of a new recreational space; it is a commitment to preserving history, promoting education, and honoring the legacy of a remarkable woman. It provides a place for reflection, learning, and connection with nature, all while celebrating the enduring spirit of Sojourner Truth and her fight for a more just and equitable world. The park promises to be a valuable asset to the community and a compelling destination for visitors from near and far, drawn to its natural beauty and the powerful story it tells.
The park’s transformation from an industrial site to a vibrant public space is a testament to the potential for renewal and the importance of preserving our natural and cultural heritage. As the park continues to develop and evolve, it will undoubtedly serve as a lasting tribute to Sojourner Truth and her unwavering commitment to justice and equality.
