From the Richmond Dispatch, 10/27/1900, p. 8, c. 4

HIDING PLACE FOR YANKEES.
A Secret Chamber Found in Miss Van Lew’s Residence.

A secret chamber has been brought to light in the old Van Lew mansion by the relatives of Miss Van Lew, who are superintending the arrangements for the sale next Tuesday of the personal effects of the deceased.

The removal of a heavy table from the wall on the third floor of the house disclosed a hole in the wall. Examination showed a board fitting in the wall, with fittings attached, so that it could be made secure from the inside of a long and narrow room running the entire length of the southern portico. The floor shows signs of heavy wear, and it is believed that Miss Van Lew used this room for the concealment of northern soldiers during the civil war.

Much of the furniture of the mansion has been shipped to Boston and Philadelphia, and the residence will be sold at auction on Tuesday.

The friendly suit has been instituted in the Chancery Court, and the estate is on the high road to a final settlement.

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