Digital Ink with an Attitude
LETTERS

Preserve historic home

The events of the last few months have helped us realize that we are first, keepers of this fragile earth and one human race, and second, proud Americans ever ready to demonstrate our belief in freedom for all. During the last month, our family and many other individuals have found a local cause to fight for ... the preservation of the historic Lathrop (Vogt) House on South Main Street in Sylvania.
The Lathrop House is one of the oldest remaining Greek Revival-style, timber-framed homes in Sylvania. That significance alone would be reason enough to save it; however, the Lathrop House represents much more to our local history. It is one of few regional places associated with the quest for freedom that many slaves sought in the mid-1800s by following trails that led north to Canada. The Underground Railroad was laid out by those who understood that slaves — though considered property by their owners — were human beings and children of God. Many “safe houses” were set up by those who ‘illegally’ helped slaves escape. One such safe house was the Lathrop home, which was reached via the ravine behind the property.
For these reasons it is imperative that we not only preserve this structure and the ravine on which it sets, but also educate our citizens as to the many, but all equally important, struggles for freedom that our great country has fostered.

Patricia Ligibel • Toledo

I would like to commend Elizabeth Reiter on her article regarding the Vogt/Lathrop house [TCP, Nov. 15-21]. I have been involved in this process on behalf of St. Joseph’s and this is by far the most balanced article that has been published by any of the local media.

Name withheld upon request