Center Brook Manor

The Center Brook Manor, popularly known as the Charles Brown Gothic Cottage, was built in 1846 by the Brown family. Ephraim Brown built the home directly across the road, called "Brownwood". Both sites are actually on the National Register of Historic Places. Not only was Ephraim a staunch abolitionist, but Charles' father-in-law, Leicester King, was as well. This home was known to be a stop on the Underground Railroad, making it a prominent home in North Bloomfield.

While the Center Brook Manor was built around 1846, it is remarkably well preserved. It was built in the Early Gothic Revival style, with sharp peaks and notable windows. However, the construction of the walls was unusual, as they were solid plank. Not only is the architecture of this home notable, but the history is as well.

Charles Brown was the son-in law of Leicester King, who owned the property where the home was built. Not only was King the president of the Pennsylvania and Ohio Canal, but he was also a State Senator. He strongly believed in abolition, and worked towards repealing the "Black Laws" in Ohio. In 1856, King passed away at the Center Brook Manor.

It is thought that the Center Brook Manor was a well-known stop on the Underground Railroad. Not only was this because Charles' father and father-in-law were abolitionists, but there are specific constructions within the house that could have been useful in this situation. William Wells Brown, a well known lecturer, novelist, and former slave, wrote about his time visiting the home in an article titled "Letters to Antislavery Workers and Agencies". He very much enjoyed his time there.

Not only was Charles Brown an abolitionist, but he was also a supporter of the temperance movement. So much so that the barn on the property was burned down due to arson in retaliation. Charles was vocal about his beliefs, and

Ohio SP Brown, Charles, Gothic Cottage, National Archives Catalog. Accessed August 23rd 2021. https://catalog.archives.gov/id/71991705.

Peterson, Roger. Personal Interview. 23 July 2021.