Eight Miles That Changed a Nation

Wellington/Oberlin History and the Underground Railroad
Part II

Oberlin: “Stop 99” on the Underground Railroad

Oberlin has been at the vanguard of civil liberties in America, with Oberlin College as the first institution to open its doors to African-Americans (1835) and women (1837). A major center of the anti-slavery movement in the U.S., the town attracted many runaway slaves whose descendants still live in Oberlin today.

Oberlin Heritage Center’s
Abolitionist Walk, outside First Church

The first stop in your tour around town should be the Oberlin Heritage Center [73 South Professor Street]. It is the former home of Civil War General Giles W. Shurtleff, who led the first African-American regiment from Ohio to serve in the Civil War. It later became the home of abolitionist James Monroe. Here, you’ll find the majestic portrait of Dr. James Harris Fairchild, who harbored John Price after his re-capture and who became a president of Oberlin College. With regular tours, “History Walks” and impassioned docents, the Museum gives you plenty of history lessons on Oberlin’s activist citizens, both white and African-American.

John Mercer Langston

Oberlin is a great walking town, so you’ll find most historic homes within reach. The Langston House [207 East College Street] was the home of John Mercer Langston, Ohio’s first African-American attorney and an ardent abolitionist. His brother Charles Langston was an Oberlin-Wellington Rescuer. Then, stop by the Bardwell House [181 East Lorain], home of the Reverend John Bardwell and his wife Cornelia, both abolitionists who hid runaway slaves under the eaves of their house. The Langston and Bardwell Houses are privately owned and not open to the public. The First Church in Oberlin [106 North Main Street] was the historic meeting place of the Oberlin Anti-Slavery Society, and the site of the haunting memorial and funeral service for a four-year-old slave child, Lee Howard Dobbins.

Underground Railroad Monument in Westwood Cemetery

If ever a place “boasted” of more illustrious citizens laid to rest, it would be Westwood Cemetery [455 Morgan Street]. Amidst statuesque pines and oak trees are the graves of Simeon Bushnell, one of the Rescuers; Lewis Clarke, a former slave and abolitionist whom, it was believed, Harriet Beecher Stowe based her character George Harris on in Uncle Tom’s Cabin; the unmarked grave (see below) of four-year-old Lee Howard Dobbins; James Harris Fairchild; Charles Martin Hall, inventor of an inexpensive method of producing aluminum; James Fitch, who secretly drove John Price to Fairchild’s home; the abolitionist James Monroe; General Giles Waldo Shurtleff; and John Watson, a former slave, Oberlin businessman and a chief organizer of the Oberlin-Wellington Rescue.


Before Rosa Parks There Was Henry Lee

You’ll discover one of the most astounding stories of Oberlin in Henry Lee, a former slave buried in Westwood. Lee predated Rosa Park’s historic refusal to sit in the “colored section” of a bus in Montgomery, AL, on December 1, 1955 by almost a century. In 1865 in Wheeling, West Virginia, Lee refused to be uprooted from a first-class train seat and placed in a section reserved for black patrons. Four years later, Lee showed the same courage on another train; he was beaten and jailed. He sued the railroad and won the lawsuit – plus damages -- two years later. Lee was also adamant with Oberlin schools about removing the name “Sambo” from a textbook, claiming it was racist. His efforts paid off; the author pledged to remove the name in his next edition.

For educators and scholars who are interested in serious research, a must-visit would be the Oberlin College Archives, Special Collections, at the Mudd (Library) Center [148 West College Street, Fourth Floor.]. The Collection holds 2,500 to 3,000 titles related to the anti-slavery movement in the U.S. and especially to the activism of Oberlin College students and professors. They include such precious documents as the original Rescuer newspaper, published on the day of the Rescue, as well as hundreds of letters and manuscripts written by abolitionists. Here, too, you will find Southern plantation inventories and bills of sale for slaves. You will see such artifacts as the chain and lock for a 19-year-old slave named Margaret Toogood, who was unshackled by Union General Lew Wallace. Wallace donated the shackles to Oberlin College.

Tourists and groups already pay a visit to the future home of
the Underground Railroad Center, the Oberlin Gasholder
Building

One of the most poignant symbols of the Underground Railroad held currently in the Collection is the tombstone of the slave child Lee Howard Dobbins. Too ill to travel to Canada with his family, he was kept behind in Oberlin, where he died on March 26, 1853, just days after his arrival. His tombstone was removed from Westwood Cemetery for safekeeping, and it will be transferred to the new Oberlin Underground Railroad Center [South Main Street, adjacent to the former Missler supermarket] once the building has been restored. “Serving as a tourist gateway and transportation hub, the Center will celebrate Oberlin’s rich history in the anti-slavery movement and honors African-American heritage to promote a better understanding of the past and provide a pathway to our future,” says Oberlin Assistant City Manager Darlene Colaso, explaining the Center’s mission. With a multi-phased restoration plan, the Oberlin-focused Center is expected to open in several years, and will feature ongoing historic and educational exhibitions in a serene setting of lawns and gardens. Colaso adds, “The project has far-reaching economic development tentacles that will not only touch those in Oberlin, but will benefit the surrounding regional area, as well. Oberlin has many compelling stories. I believe that the Center, coupled with Oberlin’s rich history, will quickly become a national draw.”

To add to the wealth of history, Oberlin is blessed with wonderful restaurants and shops. Rest your weary feet and tantalize your palate at The Feve [30 South Main Street] or Quick and Delicious [311 South Main Street]. Spend a couple days exploring the areas history, using the Oberlin Inn or other local lodging for your base while you explore.

Be sure to check out Oberlin’s renowned festivals. Juneteenth Celebration [June 17-19, 2011] is the nation’s oldest event commemorating the freeing of slaves in the U.S. (1865). You’ll be moved by lectures and a Westwood Cemetery walking tour at Oberlin’s Juneteenth festivities, plus you’ll enjoy a delectable community picnic with terrific music. Or you can bring out your inner artist at Oberlin’s annual Chalk Walk [June 25], creating chalk art on the “canvas” of Oberlin sidewalks. Be sure to bring the little ones to the Family Fun Fair [August 6], with antique autos on display, kids’ games and oldies music.

While Lorain County has played a proud, heroic and oftentimes tragic role in the history of the United States, it also celebrates the enduring spirit of life. You’ll find out, to be sure.

-Margaret Swendseid

Eight Miles That Changed a Nation

Wellington/Oberlin History and the Underground Railroad

Part I

Photo: Holly Miller

We’re all dreading the rising price of gas this summer. If you can’t afford to travel far, give your family a meaningful experience this summer and show them the real origins of the Civil War – right here in Lorain County. This year, 2011, marks the 150th anniversary of the start of the Civil War in America, and it all began in the towns of Wellington and Oberlin on September 13, 1858.

Back then, Northeast Ohio was a hotbed of the abolition movement in the U.S.  An “Underground Railroad” had been operating for years, bringing slaves to freedom in Ohio and then to Canada, which had, under the British Slavery Abolition Act, banned slavery in 1833. 

But it was a secret railroad with no engine or whistle, no iron tracks or depots, no tickets or schedules. In the darkness of night, slaves made their way up from the South to Ohio via “conductors,” or guides. They found shelter in hiding places and safe houses called “stations.” Wellington, OH, was “Stop 98” on the Underground Railroad; Oberlin, farther north, was “Stop 99” on the way to Lake Erie and the boat trip to freedom in southern Ontario, Canada.

The Wellington-Oberlin Rescue

On September 13, 1858, a scared and fragile 17-year-old former slave, John Price, was tricked into being captured in Oberlin by Federal marshals, who were acting under the laws of the Fugitive Slave Act (1850). The marshals planned to return Price to Kentucky and his “owners,” despite the fact that Price had lived as a free man in Oberlin for two years. There had been three attempted captures of former slaves in the area in 1858 alone. The marshals drove Price in stealth to the American House (Wadsworth Hotel) in Wellington. 

American House Hotel in Wellington.
Photo courtesy of the Oberlin College Archives.

Passions ran so high against slavery in Northeast Ohio that few residents of Oberlin or Wellington dallied or debated when they learned that Price had been captured. They took action. They sped off in buggies for the eight-mile journey to Wellington, along what is now Hallauer Road.

More than 200 Wellington and Oberlin residents -- former slaves and free men, lawyers, college students and professors, religious leaders and ordinary citizens – gathered at the American House in Wellington to pressure the Federal marshals into releasing Price. The marshals refused. Finally, 37 men -- 11 from Wellington, 24 from Oberlin and two from Pittsfield and Penfield – orchestrated the dramatic re-capture of young Price and returned him to Oberlin. It was a bloodless event. Price was hidden in the home of Dr. James Fairchild, who later became President of Oberlin College. The 37 men who led the rescue were arrested and sent to Cleveland for trial.

The Rescuers at the Cleveland Jail

Charles Henry Langston, one of the African-American rescuers who was tried, plead to the Cleveland court:

“We have a common humanity. You would do so; your manhood would require it; and no matter what the laws might be, you would honor yourself for doing it; your friends would honor you for doing it; your children to all generations would honor you for doing it; and every good and honest man would say, you had done right!”

Anti-slavery sentiments prevailed, and Langston was given a light sentence. The “Oberlin-Wellington Rescue” was reported as a triumph throughout the Union media and further roused anti-slavery sentiment, which spurred the start of the Civil War in America. While John Price finally made his way to Canada as a free man, no further evidence of his life there has been discovered.

When you retrace the dramatic history of Lorain County this summer or beyond, make sure to visit these sites:

Wellington: “Stop 98” on the Underground Railroad

Webster House
Lorain Public Library photo

You can literally drive by “Stop 98” on the Underground Railroad: the Alonzo Webster House [located at 46785 Route 18 West], which hid many runaway slaves. The house is now a private residence and is not open to the public. Webster was a cousin of statesman Daniel Webster.

Be sure to chat with Tim Simonson, owner of the Simonson Clock Shop [226 South Main Street], who lives and breathes Wellington history. Curator of The Spirit of ’76 Museum in town, Tim recalls how, as a boy, his parents proudly showed him houses that harbored runaway slaves. His great-, great-grandparents were witnesses to the Rescue.

Spirit of '76 Museum, Wellington

The site of the Wellington-Oberlin Rescue, American House, was torn down, and its place is the Herrick Memorial Library [101 Willard Memorial Square]. A must-stop is The Spirit of ’76 Museum [201 North Main Street], which houses hundreds of artifacts on the Wellington-Oberlin Rescue, the Civil War and more. Here you’ll find original photographs of the Rescuers, court proceedings related to them and a bust of the revolutionary abolitionist John Brown, who led the Harpers Ferry raid. Scott Markel, vice president of the Southern Lorain County Historical Society, is proud to announce the recent, exciting discovery of abolitionist meeting documents, a rarity in the secret anti-slavery movement. The Museum will begin transcribing these papers this summer for display at a future date.
Also housed in the Museum are a complete collection of Civil War guns and bullets, plus Grand Army of the Republic uniforms. A special bonus, you’ll find prints by artist Archibald Willard, who is buried in the Greenwood Cemetery in Wellington. Willard crafted the famous painting “The Spirit of ’76” after he saw a parade pass through Wellington’s town square.

Wellington Town Hall

Because of its extensive collection, you’ll want to linger longer in the Museum, but why not take a break? Head for lunch at the Bread-N-Brew [100 South Main Street], a bakery and gourmet coffee shop with delectable sandwiches and bread. Across the street you can’t miss Wellington Town Hall, with its stunning Byzantine cupolas. Later, take a spin around town to view Wellington’s breathtaking, Victorian-era mansions.
Wellington is also rich in fairs and festivals, including the Scottish Games, the Lorain County Fair, the Wellington Cheese Festival and Harvest of the Arts.

-Margaret Swendseid

Itinerary: Lorain County History

Lorain County is truly an Ohio gem! As we prepare to produce our 2011 Adventure and Visitor Info Guide, we've decided to coordinate the timing with a suggested trip through Lorain County! Whether you are a life-long North Central Ohio resident or a welcomed out-of-state guest, we’ve prepared some day-trip and long weekend itineraries!

History buffs will find an abundance of interesting, significant Lorain County history. Start your tour in Elyria at the Lorain County Historical Society and Hickories Museum. The Hickories Museum is an 1895 mansion built by Arthur Garford, the Elyria industrialist who invented the padded bicycle seat. Exhibits highlight the home's original architecture and details the everyday life of an upper-class, early 20th century family.

From Smitty’s website

A lunchtime visit to Smitty’s Place  in Elyria is always a welcome treat!  A family tradition since 1934, Smitty's is renowned for their “Smitty Burger.” This local favorite has even drawn national attention with a visit from President Barack Obama!

From your stop at the Hickories Museum, venture to downtown Lorain's Black River Landing and Historical Society. Lorain‘s legacy is based on shipbuilding, steel and as a departure point for runaway slaves searching for freedom in Canada. The Lorain Underground Railroad Station 100 Monument stands along the banks of the Black River.  

While in downtown Lorain take some time to explore the Lorain Arts Council gallery on Broadway Avenue. Many talented local artists have their works on display such as, watercolor landscapes, photography and custom painted wooden eggs. Exhibits change frequently and highlight all areas of artistic media.  

A visit to Lorain would be remiss without a stop for brunch or lunch at Lakeview Park’s Rose Café.  This beautiful waterfront facility offers spectacular views of Lake Erie and the historic Lorain Lighthouse.  Lakeview Park also maintains a half-mile beach, garden pathways and a lawn-bowling green area. The historic rose garden, officially dedicated in 1932, now displays more than 2500 roses in 48 beds with connecting walkways and paths. Spend some time walking through this Lorain County Metroparks gem and you will see how this has become a favorite place!

The next stop on our historical tour takes us a bit south of Lorain toward Amherst. Along the way, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial of Lorain County  is a reflective stopping point. This monument honors the 98 Lorain County men who gave the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam.

Photo: Jon Fobes

Shortly beyond the Veterans Memorial is the Amherst Historical Society and Sandstone Village. Take a step back in time and learn how Amherst became known as the “Sandstone Capital of the World.”  Explore the Chapel, Blacksmith Shop, Victorian House, One-room Schoolhouse and Stone Carver Workshop. The Octagonal Barn is an interesting and unique 19th century structure. The on-site Art Gallery highlights works by Neal Jenne, artist in residence, and other local artists. 

While in Amherst, restaurant choices include Hot Dog Heaven or Olde Town Pizza.  Moosehead Grill offers an extensive barbecue and dinner menu, along with daily specials. Don’t forget Kiedrowski's Bakery, no trip would be complete without a sampling of their world famous Snoogle or Paczki!

After a day of historical exploration, why not relax and unwind at a nearby winery? Paper Moon Vineyards, Vermilion Valley Vineyards and Matus Winery are all within a short distance of downtown Amherst. Each offers a variety of local and regional wine samples, impressive tasting rooms, evening entertainment and beautiful scenery! 

 

End your day of historical exploration with a stay at one of our nearby hotels or a luxurious and quaint bed and breakfast. Many of our bed and breakfasts are century homes featuring fascinating history of their own. Get some rest and be refreshed and ready for your next day’s journey...exploring the arts, culture and history in Oberlin! 

A Summer of History in Lorain County

From historical landmarks, to art; Lorain County, OH is the heart of many significant historical movements and events, as well as home to many important historical figures. The Lorain County Historical Society and Museum, the Spirit of '76 Museum, and the North Ridgeville Historical Society and Museum are just three of the many historical landmarks Lorain County has to offer. Spend some time this summer exploring north central Ohio’s historical roots. Who says learning has to stop during the summer?

The Lorain Historical Society, itself, has an appealing history that dates back to over 120 years, when it was established in 1888. In 1975 the Lorain Historical Society purchased a former mansion known as the Hickories in Elyria, OH to use as the headquarters for the museum and historical society, where it remains today.

Photo courtesy of The Lorain County Historical Society

This home once belonged to Arthur L. Garford, local inventor, industrialist, politician, and philanthropist. Visitors can tour the museum Tuesday through Friday, 1–4pm and Saturday, 1–3pm. The Lorain Historical Society provides information on Garford’s past and influence upon Lorain County, as well as various educational programs and art displays that relate to the overall history of Lorain County.

The Spirit of ’76 Museum in Wellington, OH serves as an important historical tribute to Archibald Willard and his painting “Yankee Doodle”, now known as “The Spirit of ‘76”. The museum includes over 4,000 artifacts from the surrounding time period including Revolutionary and Civil War artifacts. The museum is open April 1–October 31, Saturday and Sunday, 1–3:30pm. (Photo courtesy of Town of Marblehead, MA)

Visitors will learn the history behind the local artist and how his painting has transformed into American and Revolutionary iconography and regarded as the nation’s most inspirational painting of all time.

Spirit of '76 Museum photo by Rona Proudfoot

Another facet of Lorain County’s history can be found in North Ridgeville, OH. Visitors can experience local history by touring the historical society’s museum, located on the first floor of the Olde Towne Hall.

The extensive collection of artifacts and mementos including farming/agricultural items, military items, antique furniture, historical papers, photographs, etc. were gathered over the years from area residents. The museum is open on the last Sunday of every month (except December) from 2–5pm. Also available for touring is the historic Jaycox School, a one-room school house on Jaycox Rd., also open on the last Sunday of every month (April–October) from 2–5pm. The North Ridgeville Historical Society is currently celebrating their bicentennial anniversary with special programs and events through October 2010. (Olde Towne Hall courtesy of North Rideville Historical Society)

Jaycox School photo courtesy of North Ridgeville Historical Society

For more information on Lorain County, visit our website, email us at visitors@visitloraincounty.com, call us at (440) 984-5282, or find us on Facebook and Twitter. For more information on other historical organizations or museums in Lorain County, take a look at our member directory.