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The Historical Significance of the David Ruggles Boarding House

Discover the poignant history of the David Ruggles Boarding House, a key site in the fight against slavery and a symbol of the Underground Railroad's impact in New York City.

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Explore the rich history of the David Ruggles Boarding House, a pivotal location in the Underground Railroad. This landmark offers a window into the past, highlighting the struggles and triumphs of those who fought for freedom.

A brief summary to Site of the David Ruggles Boarding House

  • Church St & Lispenard St, New York, Manhattan, NY, 10013, US

Local tips

  • Visit nearby historical markers to deepen your understanding of the area’s significance.
  • Plan your visit during the day for the best experience, as evening hours may limit access.
  • Take a guided walking tour of the surrounding neighborhood to learn more about its history.
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Getting There

  • Subway

    Take the 1 train from any station on the West Side of Manhattan. If you're starting from Times Square-42nd Street, board the 1 train at the 42nd Street station and head downtown toward South Ferry. Get off at the Franklin Street station. Once you exit the station, walk east on Franklin Street toward Church Street. Turn left onto Church Street and walk north until you reach the intersection with Lispenard Street. The Site of the David Ruggles Boarding House will be at the corner of Church St & Lispenard St.

  • Bus

    You can take the M20 bus from various locations in Manhattan. If you are near the West Village, board the M20 bus at Christopher St/Sheridan Sq and head downtown. Get off at the Church St/Lispenard St stop. Once you get off the bus, you will be at the intersection of Church Street and Lispenard Street where the Site of the David Ruggles Boarding House is located.

  • Walking

    If you are in the vicinity of Tribeca or SoHo, you can easily walk to the Site of the David Ruggles Boarding House. From the corner of Broadway and Canal Street, head west on Canal Street until you reach Church Street. Turn right onto Church Street and continue walking north. After a few blocks, you will reach Lispenard Street. The boarding house site is located at the intersection of Church St & Lispenard St.

  • Taxi or Rideshare

    If you prefer a more direct route, you can use a taxi or rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Simply enter 'Church St & Lispenard St, New York, NY 10013' as your destination. The driver will take you directly to the location of the Site of the David Ruggles Boarding House, which is located at the intersection of Church Street and Lispenard Street.

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Discover more about Site of the David Ruggles Boarding House

Nestled at the bustling intersection of Church and Lispenard Streets in Manhattan, the David Ruggles Boarding House stands as a testament to the courage and resilience of those who sought freedom during a turbulent time in American history. Established in the 19th century by David Ruggles, an influential abolitionist and Underground Railroad conductor, this boarding house served as a refuge for runaway slaves escaping to liberty. Visitors to this historical landmark can reflect on the profound impact of Ruggles' work and the sacrifices made by countless individuals in their quest for freedom. The boarding house is steeped in stories of bravery and compassion, providing a unique glimpse into the lives of those who gathered here. While the physical structure may not be the original, the site retains an aura of its historic significance. Travelers can immerse themselves in the rich narrative of the abolitionist movement, enhancing their understanding of America's complex history. The surrounding neighborhood, with its vibrant streets and modern attractions, juxtaposes the solemnity of the past with the dynamism of contemporary New York City, creating a thought-provoking experience for all who visit. As you explore the area, take a moment to appreciate the historical markers that tell the story of the Underground Railroad and the courageous figures like Ruggles who played essential roles in its operation. This landmark is not just a place to visit; it is an opportunity to engage with the history that shaped the nation and to honor the legacy of those who fought for justice and equality.

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