The history of the 1846
Blodgett House has been created by the people
who lived there and the events that took place there. To understand the
building's true significance we need to learn about these people and
the events of their lives. 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 second 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.
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