Wilcox Octagon House

The Wilcox Octagon House is an octagonal farmhouse from the mid-1800s located in Camillus. A central staircase connects five floors and rises to a cupola offering views across the surrounding countryside.

Construction of the octagonal structure began in 1856 for farmer Isaiah Wilcox, embodying new residential ideas of that era. The property originally encompassed extensive farmland that urban development gradually reduced to a fraction of its original size.

The house reflects a design philosophy that gained popularity in 19th-century America among people seeking practical improvements to home living. The octagonal shape was part of a movement promoting better airflow and more efficient use of interior space.

The house opens to visitors mainly during warmer months and charges no admission fee. It is helpful to check ahead for current visiting days and hours before planning your trip.

The entire building was constructed using materials harvested directly from the farm itself, including stone, timber, and other resources. This approach made it a remarkable example of using what the land provided during the 1800s.