seward house

So glad we went to the Seward House while in Auburn recently. The Seward's Folly that I read about in school -- the famed Alaska purchase -- I can only say was a good thing! It is one our most beautiful states. The Seward home was beautiful, and furnished with the Seward's furniture -- not just period style furnishings. We did not know that an assassination attempt was made on Seward's life, part of John Wilkes Booth plan to kill President Lincoln and Vice President Andrew Johnson as well, all on the same night Seward served as the Secretary of State to Lincoln. John Wilkes Booth and seven others were in on the plot. Our docent was very knowledgeable, friendly and offered several lesser known facts as well. The home is well preserved, the wood work just beautiful. The family sons all served in the war and there was quite a lot of personal memorabilia on display through out the home. On our way to the Seward we saw signs for the Harriet Tubman home. At the Seward home, we learned that William and Harriet had several dealings with each other, including Seward deeding some property to Harriet, and abetting her on several occasions. So, we went a few blocks to see the Tubman Home...see separate review. As it was winter, we could not view the garden area, but happily spent about an hour and a half at the Seward home.

For history lovers, the Seward House is outstanding. His descendants with an eye towards history have preserved the house and its contents both completely and carefully. It's an amazing treasure trove of William Seward furniture, paintings, and documents. The house itself is in very good condition. The home tour guides are both knowledgeable and friendly. Additionally, there are several other very good tour stops in Auburn, NY.

This is one of the best museums that I have ever visited. Small, but full of info on Seward and his role in our nation's history. I had no idea before I visited the house years ago that Seward was to be assassinated the same night as Lincoln. The tour guides are extremely knowledgeable and have plenty of interesting stories to tell about Mr. Seward. I highly recommend that you visit this place!

Because William Henry Seward and his descendents had (and have) such a keen sense of history, virtually everything in the house is as it was when he was alive. (Notable exception: An original painting was removed, but I hope it will be restored to its proper place in the house through legal action brought by the family.) The house stayed in the family until 1955. If you have any interest in U.S. history or world history of the 1800s (since Seward traveled so much), Seward House is a must-see. So many historic homes (such as Mount Vernon and Monticello) have sparse furnishings and, even then, only "of the period." Here you see the actual furniture, books, china, etc. It's amazing! Plan ahead so you can take a guided tour. Well worth the time.

The Seward House is a not-to-be missed stop during your next visit to the area. The young man who gave our tour was very knowledgeable about the life of William Seward. This wasn't your typical tour of an old mansion. Yes, there were beautiful furnishings to enjoy but the focus was more on the life of William Seward. Such a fascinating man. As Civil War enthusiasts we have read much about Lincoln but the tour gives you a better understanding of the important role Seward has played in the history of America. The Harriet Tubman house is a short trip down the road and the Fort Hill cemetery where Seward and his family and Harriet Tubman are buried is just around the corner.

Such a pleasant Sunday afternoon! Saw the ad in the papers and decided to drive out to--YES, My FAVORITE historic home! All decorated for Christmas and they even had many tour guides--one per ROOM, to explain the details of each room and its inhabitants of the past. I learn something new every time I come here. The FREE tours are especially appreciated to people on budgets, like me. Everyone there--the volunteers--are so welcoming and helpful. I could move right into this well maintained place. Get on their mailing list so you don't miss any upcoming activities there. Parking is limited, but there are lots next door and close by. I stayed and meandered for an hour +1/2. How fortunate we are to have this attraction so close by and with so much to offer its visitors of all ages!

What a delightful surprise! The Seward house is spectacular. Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and shared so many things I never knew about William Seward. Most people only associate him with Seward's Folly...the purchase of Alaska. But he had a long and storied career and visitors to his home will be surprised by his connection to Lincoln's assassination. This was a fascinating visit and I would definitely go back again!

A hidden treasure. Artifacts from four generations of Sewards. Go thru their home home and relive their committment to equal rights and the power of our Union. An emotional tour that takes you thru a very troubled time in our American history. A must see.

Thanks so much for your feedback and for your volunteer services!

The house is quite large and contains items owned by William Seward, himself, as well as by his descendants. Hearing about these possessions allows visitors to get a better understanding of life in the 19th century, especially in terms of politics and the Civil War. Our excellent guide gave a thorough background to Seward as well as the house and Auburn. There were several children on the tour, and the guide made it a point to involve them and to answer all of their questions.

It was great learning about the live of William Steward. We did not realized he was also attacked the night Lincoln was killed.

A wonderful museum! Our guide Mitchell was excellent. We arrived 30 minutes before the next tour but took us on our own tour so we didn't have to wait. The home is filled with wonderful items from the Seward family. I'm so glad we stopped. I have a new affection for Seward! We definitely would go back! Thank you Mitchell!

We toured this house and learned so much. It was such a cool collection of family heirlooms, even the kids enjoyed it.

This tour is wonderful for history buffs. The house is packed with art and sculpture from the time period and the docents are knowledgeable about every piece. The tour lasts about and hour, but we could have spent hours there, taking it all in. Take your time through the basement exhibits -- there is a lot to read down there. We entered the tour knowing Seward = Alaska, left knowing so much more about the man, his family, and his era.

Thanks so much for taking the time to write a response. Sounds like you had a great stay in Auburn, NY!