Augustus West facts for kids
Augustus West (born March 20, 1814, in Madison County, Virginia – died 1887, in Fayette County, Ohio) was an African-American landowner and abolitionist. An abolitionist was someone who worked to end slavery. Augustus West is famous for his large home and property in Ohio. This property was a safe hiding place for people escaping slavery along the Underground Railroad.
Who Was Augustus West?
Augustus West was a very determined person. He wanted to help others escape slavery. To do this, he needed land and a safe place. He found a clever way to earn money to buy land. He worked with another abolitionist named Alexander Beatty. Together, they found ways to earn money. This money allowed West to buy land to help freedom seekers.
In 1837, Augustus West had saved enough money. He bought 177 acres of land in Fayette County, Ohio. On this land, he built a large house. He also created a road called "Abolition Lane." Along this lane, he built 12 cabins and a schoolhouse.
Six years after moving to Ohio, Augustus West married Harriet Peyton. She was from Culpeper, Virginia.
A Safe Haven for Freedom Seekers
Throughout the 1840s and 1850s, Augustus West's property became a very important stop on the Underground Railroad. The cabins he built offered shelter and safety to many people escaping slavery. The schoolhouse was also important for education.
After the Civil War ended, slavery was abolished. The cabins on Abolition Lane then became homes for people who had recently gained their freedom. This shows how Augustus West continued to help others even after the war.
Honoring Augustus West
Augustus West's property is still important today. In February 1999, archaeologists and historians visited the land. They hoped to find old items from the cabins. These items could tell us more about the people who lived there.
In 2003, the state of Ohio placed a special historical marker at the site. This marker honors Augustus West for his kindness and his efforts to help others. It reminds everyone of his important work in fighting for freedom.
