Seward House Museum — Attraction in City of Auburn

Like some many others I know, I never seemed to get around to visiting the Seward House in spite of my love of history. It was an absolutely amazing experience! The home/museum is a jewel for those inspired by or interested in American history. The condition of the property is pristine and the fact that most of the furnishing and artifacts are original gives one a connection to the past which is difficult to find. The links between the Seward family and Harriet Tubman as well as the interplay between important and historical figures from the 19th century weaves so many historical stories that it's difficult to fathom the importance of William Seward and his legacy. Seward's unlikely friendship with Lincoln and the bond they forged to correct the error of the Founders is another intricate story told by this impressive home tucked away in Central New York.

The home itself is impressive but our tour guide was obviously inspired and immersed in the Seward family and William Seward's legacy. She brought the home and the stories to life in a most entertaining and informative way. It's wonderful to spend time with people who love what they are doing and she obviously did.

This was one of the most enjoyable history experiences I've ever had, and I have had many.

Thanks to the Seward House staff and...

If you're a history buff who happens to be in the town of Auburn, definitely go visit this place. You'll learn about Mr. Seward, his long career in public service, and his human rights advocacy (he was quite progressive for his time). And how, along the way, he became associated with notable figures, such as President Lincoln and Harriet Tubman. And notable events, such as the purchase of Alaska from Russia.

There is one room in the house that was part of the "underground railroad", where enslaved African-Americans sought temporary refuge on their way to freedom in Canada. It was such a sobering experience standing there and imagining all the struggles and hardship they had endured all their lives, and especially at the point in their journey.

The only way to visit is by a guided one-hour house tour. Check their website or call ahead to confirm their schedule. The tour leader was knowledgeable...

As a History major in college I greatly appreciated my visit to the Seward home in Auburn NY, not too long a drive from Syracuse. The Seward family and descendants have served well as stewards of the home and its contents from the time of former NY Governor Seward, who pushed for the purchase of Alaska from Russia. In the house you will see the long dining table, set with cutlery and China upon which Lincoln dined during his visit. Clothing was also preserved from that family, in that era, now draped over mannequins, along with the original furnishings. An exhibit of the toys and children's amusements used by his children is worth a look. There is also on view the actual carriage rig used by Seward. Truly an authentic look into the world of the mid 19th century. Rarely have I seen such a well preserved and truly representative look at family household function and...