The Seward family always sought improvements to their dwelling in Auburn, NY. Whether it was through painting, landscape enhancement, additions to their home, or renovating existing spaces, change was a constant.
Today, the historic landscape consists of the main home, a barn, a carriage house, and roughly two acres of sprawling gardens. The home was originally constructed in 1816, with substantial renovations taking place in the 1840s, 1860s, and 1890s. The barn and carriage were constructed simultaneously in 1860. Because of the historic landscape's association with William Henry Seward and his family, the property is both a National Historic Landmark and is on the National Register of Historic Places.
Maintaining the historic character of the property is a monumental task, but work progresses every year for the purposes of preserving and promoting the Seward family legacy.
"I spent my leisure hours in making my home at Auburn worthy of my wife and daughter, whom I fondly cherished to be the elect and beloved companions of my ultimate retirement from public life. The home is there, just as I designed it, and I am getting ready to return to it..."
Letter from William Seward to Mrs. Martin of Auburn, 1869
Projects:
Barn and Carriage House Rehabilitation: This project involves the exterior restoration, site improvements, and interior renovation of the Stone Barn and Carriage House