One of Auburn's prized landmarks, The Seward House, is taking a new look at an old story.

The Seward House, built in 1816 and 1817, is often a stop for students of the Lincoln era and followers of Gov. William Henry Seward, most well-known for purchasing “Seward's Folly” as Secretary of State and his work as an abolitionist.

In the past few years, however, Jennifer Haines, the Seward House's curator of education and outreach, has tried to reach beyond the obvious, and has done so by delving into the history and lives of the other occupants of the Seward House: the women.

Presented every first Saturday of each month, Haines guides people through the house, looking not at the great and many accomplishments of Seward, but at the role his wife, Frances, his daughter, Fanny, and his two daughters-in-law, Anna and Janet, had in promoting women's rights and abolition.

Their influence was far-reaching, with their acquaintances including Harriet Tubman, Martha Coffin Wright, Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Emily Howland.

The guided tour, lasting about and hour and a half, takes visitors on a journey via the letters, statements and excerpts written by these historical women themselves, hence the tour's title: “Speaking for Themselves: Women of Seward House.”

“The women of Seward House were just as interesting as William Seward ... and just as involved, ” Haines said.

“I've always had a big interest in women's history,” Haines said.

She said she hopes visitors get a better understanding of the women and learn more about history by viewing it through their eyes and experiencing it in a different light.

In honor of Women's History Month, “Speaking For Themselves,” will be presented two extra times this month, at 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 12 and 26.

If you go

What: “Speaking for Themselves: Women of Seward House”

When: 1 p.m. Saturday, March 1

Where: Seward House, 33 South St., Auburn

How much: $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and AAA members, $2 for students and free for children 12 and younger

Info: Call 252-1283