William and Mary Hosmer House

The William and Mary Hosmer House is a two-story wooden frame structure with three bays across its front facade and a side hall layout, displaying Greek Revival design with vernacular details. The building sits on a modest plot and preserves its original construction with period-appropriate architectural features.

The house was built in 1851 and underwent expansions following the Civil War, becoming an important record of the region's development during a pivotal era. Its founder William Hosmer was an editor who actively opposed slavery and spread these convictions through his work.

The house forms part of the Freedom Trail, connecting historical sites where visitors can trace African American community life and the struggle against slavery in Central New York.

The house is located on Washington Street in Auburn and can be viewed from the outside as it sits in a residential neighborhood with good pedestrian access. Visitors should note that it remains a private residence and exploring the Freedom Trail is a self-guided experience.

The house gained National Register recognition in 2006, officially documenting an important witness to the abolitionist movement in Central New York. Contemporary photographs preserve the building's details for future generations.

Location: New York

Inception: 1851

GPS coordinates: 42.93222,-76.57639

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:03