Levi Coffin House

The Levi Coffin House is a national historic landmark that was nicknamed the “Grand Central Station” of the Underground Railroad system in the Hoosier State. It’s located near Richmond, Indiana, in a town called Fountain City, just an hour and a half drive from downtown Indianapolis. The scenic drive is decorated by deep forests, farm country and the Whitewater River. The Levi Coffin House makes for an exciting and educational day trip from Indianapolis.

Before the Civil War, Levi and Catharine Coffin helped lead thousands of slaves north to freedom. The Coffins were Quakers from North Carolina who strictly opposed slavery. Levi Quaker was a well-connected and wealthy businessman who still often referred to as the President of the Underground Railroad. His wealth and status afforded him the opportunity to provide food, transportation and clothing to slaves escaping to Canada along the Underground Railroad. For twenty years, the Coffins aided slaves passing through Fountain City to freedom. The couple moved to Ohio in 1847, where they continued assisting slaves along the Underground Railroad.

The Levi Coffin House became a sanctuary where many slaves found rest and refuge before continuing on their long journey. The home is an eight room federal style brick house that was built in 1839. Inside, there is a unique indoor well, used by the Coffins to conceal the use of water for their “visitors.” The state of Indiana purchased the property in 1967, and it has since been named a national historic landmark. It was also ranked by The History Channel as one of the nation’s Top 25 Historical Sites. Although the building was restored, the original fireplaces, doors, floors and woodwork are still intact.

The classic book Uncle Tom’s Cabin accounts the story of a woman named “Eliza,” and it’s believed that she passed through the Levi Coffin House while on her escape route. Before the abolition of slavery, thousands of slaves escaped to freedom via the Underground Railroad in the Hoosier State. After the Emancipation Proclamation, Levi Coffin went right to work aiding freedmen and advancing the antislavery movement.

This educational day trip is perfect for families and friends alike. Nearby schools frequently take field trips to the Levi Coffin House. If you’re in need of a getaway from the Circle City, head on this historical journey and visit the Levi Coffin House. Group tours of the house are available by appointment. A small admission fee is charged for the museum. Hours vary by season, check the Levi Coffin House website for details.

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Levi Coffin House
113 U.S. 27 North, P.O. Box 77
Fountain City, Indiana 47341
765.847.2432
website