Bonine Restoration

Help restore a genuine station on the Underground Railroad! The James E. Bonine c 1850's Gothic Revival Carriage House in Vandalia Michigan needs a new roof and we need your help!! 

 It is said that over 1500 fugitive slaves (now called freedom seekers) came through the Vandalia area on their way to freedom in Canada.  A large Quaker community aided them on their journey.  James E. and Sarah Bogue Bonine were part of this community, and stationmasters on the UGRR

The Bonine Victorian home and Carriage House were purchased by the Underground Railroad Society of Cass County in December, 2010.  The Bonine House


which is across the street from the Carriage House, has been lovingly restored over the past 7 years to its 2nd Empire glory.  Funds are also needed to complete this project, including side and back porches and kitchen and bathroom remodel.  The downstairs will be available for public and private events.  The upstairs houses a research libraray and display rooms that tell the story of the UGRR in Cass County. 

The Bonine House is open for tours May through October.  Find out more on www.urscc.org

The Gothic Revival Bonine Carriage House is now being restored as a station on the UGRR and a period museum.  New perimeter beams have been installed and the  fieldstone/cobblestone foundation rebuilt.

 The entrance build out with the barn doors was recently completed.  The next step is a desperately needed new roof.

Help URSCC continue the restoration of the Carriage House to save an amazing piece of history!  

You can learn much more about the Underground Railroad in Cass County MI, URSCC, and the Bonine House and Carriage House restoration on our website www.urscc.org  or our facebook page Underground Railroad Society of Cass County (Friends of the Bonine House).

 URSCC is a 501c3 non profit organization.Thank  you for your support!