Historical Marker Shines Light On Tabor’s Role In Underground Railroad

The important role played by the Tabor community in the Underground Railroad during the 1850s is highlighted in a new historical marker installled at the city’s park.

“Under the leadership of John Todd, George Gaston and Samuel Adams, Tabor’s citizens played a critical part in moving fugitives escaping slavery to safety, often at great personal risk,” said Chuck Douglass of the Tabor Historical Society.

Douglass noted that the John Todd House and Congregational Church in Tabor are already listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the National Park Service has recognized the town’s important role by designating Todd’s home and the city’s cemetery as landmarks in the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom.

“The Todd House is one of only four documented Underground Railroad stations remining in Iowa, along with 20 conductors resting in Tabor’s cemetery,” Douglass stated.

The new interpretive sign, a replacement for a sign installed in 2008, is located next to a historical marker installed by the Woman’s Club of Tabor in 1910.

“Among other things, the sign contains a description of John Brown’s visits to Tabor, a place he viewed as a safe haven for his fight in ‘Bleeding Kansas,’” Douglass said.

The restored Todd House is open to visitors but appointments must be scheduled in advance by calling 712-629-3164.