VANDALIA — Cass County residents celebrating the holidays were able to take a step back in time this weekend.

Saturday and Sunday, the Underground Railroad Society of Cass County hosted its final weekend of Christmas at the Bonine House. The annual event allows guests to visit the historic Bonine House, on Penn Road and M-60 in Vandalia, as its halls are decked with Christmas decorations and cheer. Children could also visit with Santa and Jingles the elf and learn more about the history of the home.

The Bonine House dates back to the mid-1800s and was the home of James E. and Sarah Bonine. Historical evidence indicates that the home and its carriage house were used to provide shelter for freedom seeking slaves in the 1800s.