Milton House Museum

The Milton House Museum, located in Milton, Wisconsin, is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the past, particularly highlighting the area's role in the Underground Railroad. Built in 1844 by Joseph Goodrich, the Milton House is a rare surviving example of a hexagonal stagecoach inn, constructed using the innovative grout technique, a type of early concrete.

The Milton House is most renowned for its connection to the Underground Railroad, the network of secret routes and safe houses used by enslaved African Americans to escape to free states and Canada. Joseph Goodrich, an ardent abolitionist, built a secret tunnel in the basement of the inn, which led to a nearby cabin, providing a safe passage and hiding place for runaway slaves seeking freedom.

Today, the Milton House Museum preserves this rich history and invites visitors to explore its many exhibits and artifacts. Guided tours take visitors through the original hexagonal inn, the tunnel, and the nearby cabin, providing a compelling narrative of the site's historical significance and the courageous efforts of those involved in the Underground Railroad.

In addition to its historical tours, the museum offers educational programs, special events, and reenactments that bring the history of the Milton House and the broader context of the abolitionist movement to life. The museum is typically open to the public from spring through fall, with special events and tours available by appointment during the off-season.

A visit to the Milton House Museum offers a profound and educational experience, allowing visitors to connect with a pivotal chapter in American history and appreciate the bravery and determination of those who fought for freedom and justice.