John B. Edwards House

John B. Edwards House is an Underground Railroad site in Oswego, the former home of abolitionist John B. Edwards, who owned the house from 1836 to 1895. Edwards worked with Gerrit Smith to help many formerly enslaved people escape to Canada. It’s one of the places that connect Oswego to a larger story of abolition.

Gerrit Smith was one of the best-known abolitionists in New York, based in Peterboro in Madison County, and his network ran through Central New York. Oswego’s location on Lake Ontario made it a natural final stop before the crossing to Canada.

What to Know

• John B. Edwards owned the house from 1836 to 1895.
• He was an abolitionist who worked with Gerrit Smith.
• Together they helped many formerly enslaved people escape to Canada.
• It’s one of several Underground Railroad sites in Oswego, along with the McKenzie House.
• The site is featured by Visit Oswego County.