The historic home of Thaddeus Stevens in Lancaster has been protected and is now being transformed into a museum, thanks to the efforts of LancasterHistory, the county’s leading historical organization. During an excavation for an adjacent project, an enclosed well believed to have been part of the Underground Railroad was discovered, adding a significant layer to the site’s rich history.  

Benchmark Construction is spearheading the renovation, and this summer, they hired three Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology interns—two Carpentry students and one Architectural Technology student, all women—to work on this historic project. The internships were made possible by the Ddora Foundation. These students have had the rare opportunity to contribute directly to the restoration of a site honoring the legacy of Stevens, a key figure in the abolitionist movement and founder of their own College.  

Throughout their internships, the students gained hands-on experience in various aspects of construction, such as concrete preparation, framing, and project coordination. They expressed their excitement at working on a project that connects them to Stevens’ legacy as students at the College bearing his name and as contributors to a future museum that will educate the public about his life and contributions. 

The interns shared insights into their daily work, which involved early mornings and physically demanding tasks, as well as the invaluable lessons they learned—ranging from the importance of teamwork to the nuances of historic renovation.  

A’mya Kauffman, Architectural Technology student, said, “Being involved in the legacy of Thaddeus Stevens has brought me closer to the history of the College. It’s amazing to know that people will visit this space and see the impact we’ve made.” 

Rose Misciagna, Carpentry student, said, “Working on a project that honors Thaddeus Stevens while attending a school named after him has been an incredible experience. I’m proud to be part of something so meaningful, and I’ve learned so much about hard work and craftsmanship along the way.” 

Benchmark Construction, known for its commitment to community impact, praised the interns for their enthusiasm and willingness to learn, particularly in a traditionally male-dominated field. The company emphasized the importance of diversity and mentoring young professionals in the trades, which aligns with the values of both the future Stevens & Smith Center and the College.  

Once completed, the Thaddeus Stevens and Lydia Hamilton Smith Center for History and Democracy will showcase artifacts from Stevens’ life, many of which have been loaned to the museum by Thaddeus Stevens College. Visitors will be able to explore replica rooms, including some of Stevens’ personal items such as his boots and desk, offering a tangible connection to his legacy. The Center will also shed light on Lydia Hamilton Smith, a remarkable figure in her own right, who played an integral role in Stevens’ life as a household manager, real estate owner, and ally in the fight for equity. 

For the interns, this experience has not only deepened their connection to Thaddeus Stevens’ history but also provided them with real-world skills that will propel them into their careers.