Stevens & Smith Historical Site

Introduction to the Underground Railroad in Lancaster County. Image courtesy of Archimuse. Proposed downtown Lancaster renovation. Image courtesy of Community Heritage Partners; Brown, Keener & Bressi

(click to enlarge)

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.

We have the opportunity to recognize the contributions of two key figures in the Abolitionist Movement who have never gotten their due. Both Stevens and Smith were important agents of change at a critical juncture in America's history. They helped bring freedom and dignity to a whole segment of the U.S. population.

- The Rev. Louis A. Butcher Jr., pastor of Bright Side Baptist Church in Lancaster

Closer to Equality — Capital Campaign

Our plan is to create a $20 million educational and interpretive complex, using the restored 19th century properties of Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith located in Historic Downtown Lancaster, PA – featuring an original cistern believed by historians and archaeologists to have been used by Stevens and Smith as a hiding place for escaping slaves along the Underground Railroad. This will honor the legacy of these extraordinary Americans and inspire people today to carry on the work these patriots began. 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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