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Ulster Home Unearths Underground Railroad Tunnel

  //house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/2 .. r-home-unearths-underground-railroad-tunnel.html
  Published in House and Home on Friday, March 20th 2026 at 10:53 GMT by Newsweek
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Ulster, NY - March 20, 2026 - A stunning discovery in the quiet town of Ulster, New York, is shedding new light on the region's pivotal role in the Underground Railroad. Homeowners Lisa and Jason Cutmore unearthed a concealed entrance to what experts believe is a tunnel used to aid enslaved people escaping to freedom over a century ago. The find, made during routine renovations, is already prompting a reassessment of local history and sparking renewed interest in the courageous individuals who risked everything for liberation.

The Cutmores stumbled upon the hidden passage unexpectedly. "It was completely covered over," Lisa Cutmore explained. "We were removing a section of wall during our renovations and noticed something...off. Further investigation revealed a small, bricked-over opening. We had absolutely no idea such a thing existed in our home." Recognizing the potential historical significance, the couple immediately contacted local historical societies instead of continuing the renovations.

Arthur Lewis, Ulster County Historian, confirmed the entrance almost certainly belonged to the vast network known as the Underground Railroad. "Based on the construction, the location, and the historical context, it's incredibly likely this served as a crucial link in the chain helping individuals escape enslavement," Lewis stated. "Ulster County, due to its proximity to the Hudson River and its relative distance from major population centers, was a key transit point for those seeking freedom in the North and Canada."

The tunnel's believed trajectory is particularly significant. Experts posit it extended towards the nearby Hudson River, providing a pathway to boats that would carry escaping individuals across the water and ultimately to Canada - a haven from the Fugitive Slave Act of 1850 which made assisting runaway slaves a federal crime. This waterway access was a primary reason why New York became such a critical state in the network. Many safe houses were deliberately built near river access points to facilitate the final leg of the journey.

The discovery isn't just about the tunnel itself; it's about the untold stories it represents. The Underground Railroad wasn't a single railway with conductors and stations, but a decentralized network of abolitionists, free Black communities, and sympathetic individuals who provided shelter, food, and guidance to those fleeing bondage. The Cutmore's home would have likely been one 'station' in this vast network, run by a local family willing to risk imprisonment and financial ruin to help others.

"We're trying to piece together who might have been involved - who was sheltering people here, who was coordinating their movements," Lewis explained. "Local records are being scrutinized, land deeds are being examined, and oral histories are being revisited in the hope of uncovering the names of those who bravely operated this station." He noted the importance of remembering that this assistance wasn't limited to white abolitionists; free Black communities were integral to the Underground Railroad's success, providing crucial support and safe passage.

The Cutmores have responsibly sealed the entrance to protect it from further damage or accidental disturbance. They are collaborating closely with preservationists to document the discovery thoroughly. Preliminary scans are underway to map the tunnel's extent and assess its structural integrity. Plans are being made for a more detailed archaeological investigation, including the possible use of ground-penetrating radar to identify other features of the site.

The find has already ignited discussions about historical preservation. Ulster County officials are now considering designating the property, and potentially a broader area, as a historical landmark. This designation would not only protect the site itself but also raise awareness about the Underground Railroad's legacy and the importance of confronting the painful history of slavery in America.

"This discovery is a powerful reminder that history isn't just something we read about in books," Lewis concluded. "It's tangible, it's hidden in plain sight, and it's constantly being revealed. It's a testament to the courage of those who sought freedom and the compassion of those who helped them, and it's our responsibility to preserve this history for future generations." The Cutmore's discovery serves as a compelling symbol of the enduring fight for equality and a poignant reminder that the pursuit of freedom is a continuous journey.