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Owen Lovejoy House: A Sanctuary of Abolition

Discover the legacy of Owen Lovejoy, a champion of freedom, at his historic Princeton home and Underground Railroad station.

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The Owen Lovejoy House in Princeton, Illinois, was the home of abolitionist and congressman Owen Lovejoy and a vital station on the Underground Railroad. Built in 1838, the house provided refuge for fugitive slaves and stands as a testament to Lovejoy's courageous fight against slavery.

A brief summary to Owen Lovejoy House

Local tips

  • Check the museum's schedule for seasonal hours and guided tours for an enhanced experience.
  • Explore the Colton Schoolhouse on the property to learn about 19th-century education.
  • Allow ample time to explore the exhibits and learn about Owen Lovejoy's life and work.
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Getting There

  • Car

    If arriving by car, navigate to Princeton, IL. From I-80, take exit 56 for IL-26 N toward Princeton. Follow IL-26 N for approximately 6 miles, then continue onto E Peru St for about 1 mile. Turn left onto Rural Route 3; the Owen Lovejoy House will be on your right. On-site parking is available.

  • Public Transportation

    To reach the Owen Lovejoy House via public transportation, take a Greyhound bus to Princeton, IL. From the Princeton bus station, use a local taxi service or a rideshare app like Uber or Lyft to get to the house. The ride is approximately 1.5 miles and typically costs between $5 and $10.

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Discover more about Owen Lovejoy House

The Owen Lovejoy House, located in Princeton, Illinois, is a significant historical landmark that embodies the spirit of the abolitionist movement. Built in 1838, this unassuming 1.5-story wood-frame house served as the home of Owen Lovejoy, a prominent abolitionist, reverend, and congressman. Lovejoy was a vocal opponent of slavery and a key figure in the Underground Railroad, helping countless fugitive slaves escape to freedom. Lovejoy's commitment to the anti-slavery cause was deeply personal; his brother Elijah, an abolitionist newspaper publisher, was murdered by a pro-slavery mob in 1837. This tragedy fueled Lovejoy's determination to fight for the abolition of slavery through political action and direct assistance to those seeking freedom. The house itself features a concealed compartment, a triangular space hidden behind a staircase, which served as a hiding place for escaping slaves. Visitors to the Owen Lovejoy House can explore the restored home, furnished to reflect its mid-19th-century appearance. The museum offers a glimpse into the lives of the Lovejoy family and the courageous individuals who sought refuge within its walls. The Colton Schoolhouse, a one-room schoolhouse dating back to 1849, is also located on the property, providing additional historical context. The Owen Lovejoy House is a National Historic Landmark, a powerful reminder of the struggle for freedom and equality in the United States.

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