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.
