The simple beauty of the Museum's facade, however, housed dangerous politics (for the time). The Keltons were active supporters of the abolitionist movement and did all they could to assist fugitive slaves.

According to Kelton family tradition, runaways were hidden in the barn at the back of the building, in a 300-barrell cistern or sometimes in the servants' quarters.

In 1864, Sophia Kelton, Fernando's wife, found 10-year old Martha Hartway hiding in the shrubbery alongside the home. The Keltons accepted the little girl into their home, where she was raised and educated by the Kelton family.

The Museum collection, most original to the family, includes 19th century furniture, paintings, china, silver, crystal, books, music boxes and family photographs and records.

You can tour the Kelton House on Sundays from 1-4 p.m. (no appointment necessary) or call the Museum to arrange a tour at other times. Costumed docents tell about 19th century life through the eyes of the Kelton family.

Lectures and programs on 19th century topics are held throughout the year. On the second Sunday of each month, the Museum presents "Trails of Hope," historic re-enactments that bring stories of the Underground Railroad to life. Special "experiential tours" provide vivid first-person meetings with Sophia Kelton as she shares her family secret (reservations required).

The Kelton House was restored and is maintained by the Junior League of Columbus. Schedule "experiential tours" by appointment at 614-464-2022.