John Randall House, historic house in Connecticut, United States
The John Randall House is a residential building in North Stonington, Connecticut, built around 1685 and completed by 1720. The structure features thick wooden walls, brick construction, a large central stone chimney, and clapboard siding, with interior rooms containing wooden paneling, built-in cabinets, and preserved plaster details.
John Randall I arrived in the late 1600s and purchased the land in 1680, with his son John Randall II constructing the house. In the 1800s, descendant Darius Randall became involved in antislavery efforts, and the property served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
The house served as a stop on the Underground Railroad, reflecting how local families participated in helping enslaved people reach freedom. The hidden trap door beneath the hearth shows the practical measures taken to shelter those seeking escape.
The house sits down a long driveway away from Route 2, so allow extra time to reach it from the main road. Visit during daylight hours when you can best see the building and the family cemetery located on the grounds.
A hidden trap door beneath the hearth led to a secret space where people could safely hide while their escape was being arranged. This concealed feature reveals the ingenuity and courage of those who created shelter for others.
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