Austin F. Williams Carriagehouse and House facts for kids
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Austin F. Williams Carriagehouse and House
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U.S. Historic district
Contributing property |
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 Location in Connecticut
Location in the United States
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| Location | 127 Main St., Farmington, Connecticut |
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| Area | 2.6 acres (1.1 ha) |
| Built | 1842 |
| Architect | Chauncy Wells and Cephas Skinner |
| Architectural style | Greek Revival |
| Part of | Farmington Historic District (ID72001331) |
| NRHP reference No. | 98001190 |
Quick facts for kids Significant dates |
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| Added to NRHP | August 5, 1998 |
| Designated NHL | August 6, 1998 |
| Designated CP | March 17, 1972 |
The Austin F. Williams Carriagehouse and House is a historic building located at 127 Main Street in Farmington, Connecticut. It was built in the mid-1800s. This property is very important because of its connection to the famous Amistad case. It also served as a secret stop on the Underground Railroad, helping people escape to freedom. Because of its history, it was named a National Historic Landmark.
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A Home with a History
Austin Williams (1805–1885) and his wife Jennet Cowles Williams were abolitionists. This means they strongly believed that slavery was wrong and worked to end it.
The Amistad Connection
This property first became important during the Amistad case. In 1841, some Mende men who had revolted on the slave ship La Amistad were finally set free from prison. Austin Williams bought this property and built a special dormitory for them. This building is now part of the carriage house. The Mende men stayed here while plans were made for their return to Africa. During this time, they also did farm work. Williams was friends with Lewis Tappan, who helped the Africans.
A Stop on the Underground Railroad
In 1842, the Williams family built their main house. It was designed in the Greek Revival style. The cellar, or basement, of the carriage house had a secret hiding place. This spot was used to shelter enslaved people who were escaping to freedom. It was part of the Underground Railroad, a network of secret routes and safe houses.
National Recognition
The Austin F. Williams Carriagehouse and House was recognized as a National Historic Landmark in 1998. It is located at 127 Main Street in Farmington. It is also part of the larger Farmington Historic District. Today, the house is a private home and is not open to the public.
