The Grover Barn
Joel Grover came to Kansas Territory from New York in 1854 and settled on land in Wakarusa Township, Douglas County. He was a dedicated Abolitionist and joined the Free State militia, fighting in several battles against pro-slavery forces. He later got married and built a stone barn on his farm in 1858.
In December 1858 the famous Abolitionist John Brown led a group of twelve enslaved people from western Missouri into Kansas Territory. They traveled at night, keeping watch during the day for slave-hunters. They stopped at several safe houses in present-day Anderson, Franklin and Douglas Counties. A companion of John Brown wrote that they were seeking a “railroad route” (the Underground Railroad). One of the women gave birth to a baby, who was given the name John Brown Daniels, during the journey.
They finally arrived at the Grover barn in late January 1859 and stayed some days, preparing to continue on their way to Canada. At least four different individuals wrote accounts documenting the fact that John Brown personally brought this group to the Grover barn. This makes it one of the most significant Underground Railroad stations in history, and one of the few that remain standing.
Though many fugitives were unfortunately caught and returned to their owners, this group of freedom-seekers went on through Nebraska and Iowa, where they caught a train to Chicago. John Brown was able to watch them cross into Canada and freedom at last!
You can read more about John Brown’s travels with freedom seekers at guardiansofgroverbarn.com.
