Sat 6/26 @ 1-3PM
If you passed by the corner of East 115th and Mayfield just south of Euclid Avenue in University Circle in the latter part of last year, you saw a dug-up lot and construction equipment. At the back of that lot was the Cozad-Bates House, which probably wouldn’t have drawn your attention then but it should now.
This historical landmark has been restored as an Underground Railroad Interpretative Center called Restore Cleveland Hope. The nonprofit, formed in 2003, honors Cleveland’s role in the anti-slavery movement of the 19th century. The Cozad-Bates House, built in 1853, is the only extant pre-Civil War building in University Circle. While it’s unknown if the house itself was involved in the abolitionist movement, it’s known that that sentiment was widespread in the area that’s now University Circle and that many escaping slaves came through Cleveland and were aided by local residents, including the Cozad family.
You can visit the Cozad Bates House and check out the new abolition/underground railroad museum there at a Freedom Festival and grand opening this week. Restore Cleveland Hope and the Extended Family will have their Underground Railroad Quilts on display and they’ll be talking about the flags’ symbolism. You’ll also have a chance to “meet” historic figures, Sara Lucy Bagby and Cyrus Ford.
The Festival will talk place on the grounds around the Cozad Bates House (no long all dug up) where all ages can have fun playing an educational hide-and-seek game. The event is free and family-friendly.
cozad-bates-house-interpretive-center