The Seward House Museum is very excited to present a new virtual educational resource directed at 4th and 5th grade learners: The Fanny Seward Story website!

This site explores the life and legacy of William Henry and Frances' youngest child and recorder of history, Fanny Seward. While keeping a diary consistently through the late 1850s and early 1860s, Fanny observes everyday life, intriguing familial relations, and conversations with various diplomats and politicians. She writes her opinions of local and national events and critiques newly published books. As a female teenager, she paints a unique perspective of the Civil War and mid-19th century that allows history to come alive in a new way. The Fanny Seward Story site's purpose is to engage youth with a time in history that may be hard for them to connect with in other ways. The site offers an examination of Fanny's historical setting and experiences, contextual discussion questions, primary source analyses, visuals of collections objects, a helpful vocabulary list, and interactive activities that allow for further critical thinking.

This project was made possible in part by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Seymour Library, the University of Rochester, and the Museum Association of New York also aided in the site's creation. With an amazing collection of personal items, informal letters, and a diary that spans eight years, the Seward House Museum hopes to shed light on an inspirational historical character and deliver this knowledge to a brand new audience. Not only is Fanny relatable in personality and youthful experience, but she also witnesses a moment in history that is reflective of our current societal issues. Fanny teaches us that children can change the world, one word at a time.

Click Here to Visit the Site