Museums and Historic Sites

Oswego County has a rich history. With its strategic location on Lake Ontario and access to key waterways like the Oswego and Salmon rivers and Oneida Lake, the area has played a vital role in New York State history as well as the history of the entire nation.

Our abundance of museums, historic sites and historical societies offer deep insight into this heritage. From lighthouses and forts to charming museums and historical societies, history enthusiasts will not want to miss these museums in Upstate NY.

Of all Oswego attractions, perhaps the most significant is Fort Ontario State Historic Site. It is the only U.S. military site to play a part in every American campaign – from the French and Indian War in the colonial era to current deployments in the Middle East. It served as the Fort Ontario Emergency Refugee Shelter during World War II – the only one in the U.S. – when nearly 1,000 Holocaust refugees came to Oswego as guests of President Franklin Roosevelt. Visitors can learn more about this chapter at the Safe Haven Holocaust Refugee Shelter Museum, located in the former administration building of the shelter. 

Even more significant than its historic sites, Oswego County’s residents have long played a role in shaping American history.

The Town of Oswego was the home of Dr. Mary Walker, an outspoken advocate for women’s rights and Civil War surgeon who became the first and only woman to be awarded the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor. Fort Walker in Virginia was re-named for her and she is featured on the 2024 quarter as part of the U.S. Mint’s American Women Quarter Program.

Revolutionary War hero and American spy Silas Town overheard plans of a British attack on Fort Stanwix and was able to forewarn the troops and stave off the attack, which may have helped change the tide of the war.

Stationed at Fort Ontario in the early 19th century, James Fenimore Cooper drew inspiration from Oswego County’s scenic beauty and included descriptions of it in many of his works.

Exploring local heritage is one of the most interesting things to do in Oswego, NY. Learn more about historic Oswego, NY attractions and other sites around the county from the list below.

Explore Museums and Historic Sites

Casey’s Cottage at Mexico Point

Casey’s Cottage at Mexico Point

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Central Square Railroad Museum

Central Square Railroad Museum

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Children's Museum of Oswego - CMOO

Children's Museum of Oswego - CMOO

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Fort Brewerton / Oliver Stevens Block House Museum

Fort Brewerton / Oliver Stevens Block House Museum

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Fort Ontario State Historic Site

Fort Ontario State Historic Site

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H. Lee White Maritime Museum

H. Lee White Maritime Museum

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John Wells Pratt House Museum

John Wells Pratt House Museum

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Mexico Historical Society Museum

Mexico Historical Society Museum

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Oswego Town Historical Society

Oswego Town Historical Society

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Phoenix Bridge House

Phoenix Bridge House

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Pulaski Historical Society Museum

Pulaski Historical Society Museum

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Richardson-Bates House Museum

Richardson-Bates House Museum

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