The house has been mostly empty for years, and is riddled with hidden passageways that were used to hide escaping slaves on the Underground Railroad.

After many strange happenings in the house, Thomas and his father find a secret passage leading to a cavern full of historic artwork, tapestries, glasswork, ledgers, and carvings.

Mr. Pluto and Mr. Darrow's father were both descendants of escaped slaves who had passed through Dies Drear's house and later returned.

Thomas looks forward to starting school and making friends, possibly including young Mac Darrow.

Library of Congress Subject Headings for The House of Dies Drear are: African Americans, Mystery and detective stories, Underground Railroad, and Ohio-History.