Mission And History

Mission

To inspire curiosity and foster learning about 19th century America through the lens of the William H. Seward family by providing engaging and unique experiences; to preserve, protect and care for the collection; and to sustain the historical landscape.

Institutional History

In 1951 William Henry Seward III bequeathed the family home in Auburn, NY to the Fred L. Emerson Foundation to serve as living memorial to his famous father and grandfather. After a few years of careful preparation, the Seward House opened to the public in 1955, was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1964, and now displays one of the most original collections of any historic home in America. In 2008 the museum established itself as its own independent 501-C3 not for profit museum.