Clermont County Underground Railroad Barn Mural

Perched atop a hill overlooking State Route 32, the barn stands as a landmark celebrating Clermont County's rich history and its vital role in the Underground Railroad. Built in 1939 and owned by Charles and Lucy Snell, the barn was one of only five Ohio barns selected for the America 250 celebration. The mural depicts significant landmarks along Clermont County's Freedom Trail, including the Williamsburg home of Dr. Pease, who, alongside his neighbor Charles "Boss" Huber, helped more than 300 enslaved people escape to freedom in Canada. Also featured is New Richmond's Cranston Memorial Presbyterian Church, a prominent center of abolitionist activity that welcomed speakers such as John Rankin, James G. Birney, George Beecher, and Calvin Stowe. A simple flatboat represents the courageous journeys across the Ohio River toward freedom. In 2001, a mural was painted on Snell’s Barn in celebration of Ohio’s bicentennial, marking the barn as the state’s 71st commemorative barn. Completed on September 11, 2001, the mural became an important part of the barn’s history. In 2025, it was reimagined in honor of America 250, highlighting Clermont County’s contributions to the pursuit of freedom and inspiring future generations to explore and preserve the stories of the Underground Railroad.

Artist: Scott Hagan, The Ohio Barn Painter