The
history of the 1846 Blodgett House has been created by the people who
lived there and by the events that took place. To understand its true
historical significance we need to learn about the lives of the people
and the events that took place as well as the history of the structure
itself.
In 1846 Israel and Avis
Blodgett replaced the family's earlier log cabin with a frame house.
The house was completed in 1849. Now one of the oldest houses in the
village, the 1846 Blodgett House, with rustic hand-hewn black walnut
joists, and simple clapboard structure, currently covered by aluminum
siding, reflects early pioneer style, living space and craftsmanship.
Before the turn of the 20th century, the 1846 Blodgett House was moved
to its current location at the south end of the Blodgett property, now
812 Randall Street.
But what of the people who lived there? Israel and Avis Blodgett
were very early residents, moving to Downers Grove, in 1836. The
Blodgett family played an important role in early Downers Grove
history. Israel Porter Blodgett, Sr. operated a blacksmith shop,
and is credited with developing the self-scouring plow used to turn the
Illinois prairie. His 2nd son, Israel Porter, Jr., helped to
construct a much-needed sawmill. The Blodgetts were also known to enjoy
a close connection with native Americans in the region.
And what of the events that happened in the house? Perhaps the role of
the house and the Blodgett family in the Underground Railroad is most
significant. Several members of the Blodgett family were active in the
abolitionist cause. The 1846 Blodgett House itself is documented
as an active stopover on the Underground Railroad that led from slavery
to freedom.
We invite you to discover the history of the house, the Blodgetts
and the events of the Underground Railway that make the 1846
Blodgett House a historical treasure to be recognized and preserved in
Downers Grove.
Historical
information about the Blodgett family comes from many sources. Here we
give our best understanding of several, often-divergent accounts.
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