Pearson House Museum Complex
Standing proudly on the west side of Keosauqua, the historic Pearson House is one of Van Buren County's most treasured landmarks. Maintained by the Van Buren County Historical Society, this unique brick-and-stone home was constructed between 1845 and 1847 and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1978.
The home was built by Benjamin Franklin Pearson, a skilled stonemason who originally planned to construct the entire house from stone. After completing the first floor, Pearson accepted a supply of brick as payment for a debt and used those bricks to finish the upper level, creating the distinctive appearance visitors see today. The second floor was originally one large room and served as a gathering place for early Methodist Church services in the community.
The Pearson House also played a role in one of America's most important stories. Historical accounts identify the home as a station on the Underground Railroad, the secret network that helped enslaved people escape to freedom. A concealed hideaway beneath the floor, accessed through a trap door, provided a place of refuge for those making the dangerous journey north.
After serving as a private residence for more than a century, the house suffered significant damage during a tornado in 1967. The Van Buren County Historical Society purchased and carefully restored the structure, preserving it for future generations to experience and enjoy.
More to Explore at the Pearson House Complex
Ellis School
Located on the grounds is the historic Ellis School, a preserved one-room country schoolhouse relocated to the site by the Historical Society. Inside, visitors can step back in time and see original student desks, a pot-bellied stove, and the teacher's bell, creating the feeling that class could begin at any moment.
Moughler Pioneer Log Cabin
Also situated on the property is the Moughler Pioneer Log Cabin. Relocated and preserved by the Historical Society, the cabin is furnished much as it would have been during the mid-1800s, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of Iowa's early settlers.
Together, the Pearson House, Ellis School, and Moughler Log Cabin tell the story of Van Buren County's early settlement, education, faith, and the courageous individuals connected to the Underground Railroad, making the site one of the county's most significant historical destinations.
Hours
Open May to October on Sundays | 1pm - 4 pm
Other times by appointment, call 641-431-0581 or 319-293-7111
General Admission
$20 ~ per tour up to 4 people
$5 ~ each person for group tours
12 and under no charge
Contact
718 Dodge Street
Keosauqua, IA 52565
(641) 431-0581
