Lewis, Iowa: Secret Passages for Enslaved People
Minister and abolitionist Rev. George Hitchcock built his house in 1856 to accommodate enslaved people escaping to Canada, with a basement and secret hiding places.
Reverend George B. Hitchcock House
- Address:
- 63788 567th Lane, Lewis, IA
- Directions:
- Reverend George B. Hitchcock House. A mile west of town on Nishna Valley Rd; watch for the sign.
- Hours:
- May-Labor Day Th-Su 1-5 pm, or by appt. (Call to verify) Local health policies may affect hours and access.
- Phone:
- 712-769-2323
- Admission:
- Adults $5.
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Visitor Tips and News About Secret Passages for Enslaved People
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Home with Secret Passages to Hide Slaves
Off a gravel road, Admission is $5 per person. Definitely worth taking time to see. Wonderful restoration of history!
[A Mickelson, 08/14/2017]Well, there is one secret passage. And there's a $5 charge to tour the house. But it's worth it!
[Kim Watts, 06/28/2012]Home Built for Underground Railroad
The Hitchcock House, a stop on the Underground Railroad, was built in the 1850s by George Hitchcock, a minister and ardent abolitionist. The house was specifically built to harbor slaves on their way to freedom in Canada.
It included a full basement, which was unusual for the time. A tiny secret room hidden behind a hinged cupboard in the basement kitchen provided an additional hiding area when the slaves' safety was threatened.
[Jan Unsicker, 08/13/2010]Nearby Offbeat Places
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