Stevens & Smith Historical Site

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The Possibilities: A Steady Stream Of Visitors

The new educational and interpretive complex will also generate interest outside the local region. Because of its emphasis on civil rights, equality and freedom, it is likely to draw visitors from around the country – and even the world. More than eight million people visit Lancaster County each year, and a recent survey by the Pennsylvania Dutch Convention & Visitors Bureau revealed that an impressive 52 percent of potential heritage visitors to Lancaster County would be “very likely” to visit a facility that explores civil rights and the U.S. Constitution. An independent estimate indicates that the historic precinct would attract between 75,000 and 80,000 visitors each year. The economic benefits from such a steady stream of visitors would touch both city businesses and residents, and also help enhance Lancaster’s reputation as an important historic location.

Thaddeus Stevens was one of the great champions of American freedom, and his contribution has been sadly neglected for far too long. He helped shape the America in which we all live today in profound ways. The Stevens and Smith Historic Site is a rare and remarkable site of national significance — one of the very few that associates a major elected official directly with the Underground Railroad. As the National Freedom Trails program expands, the Stevens complex is destined to become one of the most important sites of all.

- Fergus Bordewich, historian and author of Canaan: The Underground Railroad and the War for the Soul of America

Closer to Equality — Capital Campaign

We have successfully completed Phase I of our campaign to restore historic buildings once containing the home, law office and businesses belonging to Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith and to create rough museum space to house the main interpretive and educational complex. We are now embarking on Phase II of that effort which will complete the interiors and create exhibits and programming to honor the lasting legacy of these two American heroes and inspire people to carry on their work. Please join us by giving a gift. View the Friends of the Closer to Equality Capital Campaign.

A Place in History: The Story of Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith

Watch video now (33 minutes)

Historic Preservation Trust of Lancaster County‎

Office:
123 North Prince Street
Lancaster, PA 17603

phone: 717.291.5861
fax: 717.291.2251
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