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Brave the heat in the grounds of the Seward House Museum to help museum staff and volunteers in keeping the SHM gardens pristine during their peak season.

SHM Education and Outreach Coordinator Zach Finn retraces how, on April 14th, 1865, Fanny Seward witnessed an assassination attempt on her father. Her first-hand account of that night was kept in her personal journals, which provides historians valuable insight into the infamous attack; however, the attempt on her father’s life was not the first time Fanny witnessed violence against her family. Despite the dangers she and her family faced, Fanny would develop a strong moral and political voice in her writings that challenged the 19th-century status quo.

As part of Auburn’s Pride Month commemoration, SHM Directors of Education and Collections will discuss the Seward family's connections to Charlotte Cushman.  A renowned actress of her time, Cushman was also a Seward family friend and early figure in LGTBQ history. Jeff Ludwig and Matt Mac Vittie will explore these stories as well as sexuality in the 19th-century and the complicated ways Cushman subverted “traditional” roles in a Victorian age often associated with repression.

Join museum staff and volunteers in tending to flower beds, garden spaces, and the majestic grounds!

Up to this point, the Seward Family Digital Archive staff at the University of Rochester have identified 207 letters that include references to family animals. Not only did the Sewards have numerous dogs, cats, and birds, they also had less conventional pets, including squirrels, a deer, and an eagle. From celebrating birthdays to “writing” letters, the pets brought joy and entertainment to the family. Lauren Davis, co-manager of the Seward Family Digital Archive, will share stories from the Seward family’s correspondence about these treasured family members.

The fabulous and fascinating artwork of the Seward House moves from the backdrop to the foreground in this art-centric expanded tour. Learn how aesthetics framed the world—and home—of the Seward family, as well as which artists and art movements caught their eyes.

Admission is $15 for adults, $10 for museum members. Reservations suggested.

Due to the First Friday Community event, the 4pm-5pm tour will not run and the Museum will be closed during this time. We apologize for the inconvenience. 

Join us for a First Friday reception and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Docents will be on hand to interpret Seward's office, the library, and the SHM's new exhibit: Forged in Freedom: The Bond of Seward-Tubman Families. The gift shop will feature multicultural works from the permanent collection of Point of Contact Gallery in Syracuse, NY.

Due to the June First Friday Community Event the 4:00 pm tour will not run on this date, and the Museum will be closed between the hours of 4:00 pm and 5:00 pm. We apologize for any inconvenience. 

Join us for a First Friday reception and enjoy complimentary refreshments. Docents will be on hand to interpret Seward's office, the library, and the SHM's new exhibit: Forged in Freedom: The Bond of Seward-Tubman Families. Visitors will have a first glimpse of a recently acquired portrait of Secretary of State William H. Seward, circa 1856.

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