Westfield chugs along as a center of the historic Underground Railroad

By Victoria Davis

STROLL THROUGH THE STREETS OF WESTFIELD and visualize the environment as a safe house for those who were in search for a better life, where they could be free from the control of others. Imaginary footprints from runaway slaves still lie in the soil where one of the main Underground Railroad routes was formed.

Many of the 24,000 residents may be unaware of the rich history that lies beneath the soil of the area, including the city’s involvement with the Underground Railroad, which began in the mid 1830s. Three main routes were believed to travel through Indiana, and one of them plowing straight through the middle of Westfield is known as the North Central route.

“With the sizable Quaker population, they could help many escapees with a minimum of worry about secrecy,” said David Heighway, Hamilton County historian.

Named one of the top 50 “Best Places to live” by CNN Money Magazine in 2013, Westfield, located about 20 miles north of Indianapolis, prides itself on its small town culture.

Asa and Susannah Bales founded Westfield in 1834 when they opened their home and operated the first Underground Railroad station. The family owned a barn that was quite larger than most where they hid slaves in the cellar, using false walls and trap doors. About 10 years later, a portion of the Bales’ land was sold to the Anti-Slavery Friends for a church and cemetery.

Residents of the area opened their homes to fugitives while providing clothing and food to nurse the runaway slaves back to health. Dozens of courageous families are responsible for the freedom of thousands of slaves.

Today The Anti-Slavery Cemetery, the Bales family’s final resting place, sits just west of their former home.

ATTRACTIONS
Westfield is filled with distinct reminders of the areas dedication and heritage of playing a vital role in the Underground Railroad.

Haunted Underground Railroad Walking Tour: This three-hour tour is sure to raise lots of eerie questions about Westfield’s involvement in the Underground Railroad while encountering the area’s most haunting legends. Led by professional paranormal investigators, the tour is blended with ghost stories and Underground Railroad tales.

Asa Bales Park: In the heart of Westfield lies 13 acres of trees and grasslands dedicated to Asa Bales, the founder of Westfield. The park features multiple shelters, a playground; skate park – all while adding natural scenery by the Thompson Canal. A walking trail connects Downtown Westfield and the Grand Junction Trail located at the southern area of the park. The town’s annual Fourth of July celebration “Westfield Rocks the 4th” also takes place in this area.

Westfield-Washington Historical Society and Museum: Discover the hidden gems in Westfield and Washington Township at this local museum filled with historical photographs, artwork and documents dating back to the 1800s when the town was founded.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Roadway Inn and Suites: Located at 15131 Thatcher Lane, this includes king and double beds. The Inn is equipped with a fitness center, wireless Internet, an indoor heated pool and guest laundry.

Old Towne Carmel Bed and Breakfast: This 100-year old home at 521 First Ave. in nearby Carmel is restored to its glory for those who would prefer a “homey” feel during their stay. Choose one of three guest rooms before enjoying the fireplace den, private brick patios and home-baked sweet rolls.

Prairie Guest House: Located at 13805 Allisonville Road in nearby Fishers, this is more than just your average bed and breakfast. With more than nine suites to choose from, visitors can begin their morning with a cup of herbal breakfast tea, a sweet potato hash and eggs breakfast or in the in-house yoga studio.

DINING

Big Hoffa’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que: Westfield brings on the barbeque at Big Hoffa’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, 800 E. Main St. Voted the best BBQ by A List Indy in 2012, this local restaurant serves up pulled pork, creamy mac and cheese, and homemade peach cobbler.

Jan’s Village Pizza: Visit a real mom and pop establishment and Westfield’s only pizzeria. Made from fresh ingredients, customers can enjoy gourmet pizzas, sandwiches, wings and salads at affordable prices.

Erika’s Place: Stop by this casual diner,102 S. Union St., for a western omelet for breakfast, a snack of fried pickles or a loaded Mexi Tater for lunch.