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Make History Yours

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Keep Our History Alive

Join the Oswego County Historical Society and get exclusive perks like members-only events, free admission, discounts in our gift shop, and more. Become a Member

Find Your Volunteer Niche

With opportunities behind-the-scenes and on the front lines, volunteer at the Richardson-Bates House Museum and inspire our patrons, preserve history, and find your niche. Become a Volunteer

Leave a Legacy

With a planned gift of stock or bequest in your will, a small act becomes a lasting impact on Oswego County history. Consider a contribution from your estate. Explore Legacy giving
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ABOUT OSWEGO COUNTY HISTORICAL SOCIETY

Founded in 1896, the Oswego County Historical Society is a non-profit organization that has preserved and promoted Oswego County history for over 100 years. In 1946, the Society received the generous gift of a historic 19th century Italian Villa on Oswego's east side to serve as a permanent headquarters and museum.

The Richardson-Bates House Museum

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Richardson-Bates House Museum is one of the most intact house museums in New York State. It offers a unique glimpse into the lifestyle of a prominent wealthy Oswego family, and serves as the place where history comes alive in Oswego County.

The museum’s opulent interiors in the first floor period rooms reflect the art and culture of the 19th century Victorian elite. About 90% of the family’s original furnishings and most of the family’s historic and ethnographic collections were included when the house was gifted to the Society in 1946.

Upcoming Events

Free

History on Tap: Girl in the Glass Coffin

May 1, 2024 19:00
History on Tap is back! To kick off the new season, join us for a presentation by Lee Hickey on her new book The Girl in the Glass Coffin: The…
$20.00

Not-So-Silent Auction 2024

May 17, 2024 18:00
Fundraiser to benefit the Oswego County Historical Society. Check out unique antiques and Oswego collectibles. Combination of Silent Auction, Live Auction, Raffle Baskets, and more!

OCHS Annual Meeting and McCrobie Building Presentation

June 2, 2024 13:30
OCHS invites Michael Pittavino, Curator of the H. Lee White Maritime Museum, to present on the historic McCrobie Civic Center building and Oswego Yacht Club.

The Oswego County Historical Society offers well-researched, high-quality educational material for students, educators, and researchers to explore the history of Oswego County. The material covers a range of topics in an approachable manner and is offered for free. Such topics include local figures like Dr. Mary Walker or Tudor Grant, political movements like abolition and women’s suffrage, and the impact of industrialization on the region. By using our educational materials, you agree to our Images & Licensing Policy.

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The Oswego County Historical Society seeks to interpret its collections to connect the community to past, present and future topics relevant to local history, and to promote a public interest in Oswego County’s historical resources.

Address

Richardson-Bates House Museum
135 E. 3rd St., Oswego, NY 13126

Hours

Thurs. – Sat.: 1:00 – 5:00 PM
April through December

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