Stowe House in Hartford named historic landmark

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — Interior Secretary Ken Salazar says the Harriet Beecher Stowe House in Hartford is one of 13 new national historic landmarks.

Salazar and National Park Service Director Jonathan Jarvis announced the new landmarks Monday, calling them important sites that help tell the story of America.

Stowe was a 19th century writer and anti-slavery activist who published more than 30 books, including "Uncle Tom's Cabin." Officials say her house on Forest Street, right next to Mark Twain's house, is associated with her later career as a reformer for women's and family issues.

There are more than 2,500 national historic landmarks, which receive a designation letter, a plaque and technical preservation advice. The program is aimed at encouraging preservation of historic sites.