Explore the Jordan House Grounds

You are standing in front of the Jordan House. The Jordan House is a two-story, wood frame house that is painted ivory with dark green shutters. There is a wooden balcony that runs the length of the house. There are two square windows on the second floor with a small balcony and door between them over the two front doors. On the ground floor, there are two rectangular windows on either side of the two front doors. There is a large bush in front of the window to the right of the doors. Two small green wooden benches sit behind and to the right of the bush.

House Description

The Jordan House, a grand Victorian home, is known to be a stop on the Underground Railroad. It is a two-story home featuring a magnificent entrance. When James Jordan first settled in the area, he first took shelter in a lean-to tent, then a log cabin, and then began building the house we see today. It is one of the oldest structures in Polk County. James Jordan was a known abolitionist, and his house is a known stop on the Underground Railroad.

Image 1: A map of Iowa with the Jordan House and West Des Moines designated in the center of the state.

Image 2: A green sign with gold lettering that reads “Historic Jordan House Circa 1850.”

Image 3: The Jordan House

Image 4: A slight rise, a distance from the house, covered in tall prairie grass. From the hill, slightly behind a tree, a side door on the Jordan house is seen between two tall trees.

Image 5: A plaque that reads “The Jordan House has been placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of the Interior c. 1850-1870.”

Question A

James Jordan was a politician who made laws, and an abolitionist who broke laws. What are the advantages and disadvantages of being in both roles?

Question B

Freedom seekers would not have stayed in the main house. Where would they have stayed and why?