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Oswego, New York is a waterfront community located on the Southeastern shore of Lake Ontario and along the Oswego River. The city is embarking on a transformation to build upon its strengths to embrace our rich history, natural assets, and promote the development and restoration of healthy, vibrant neighborhoods surrounding Oswego's downtown.

Select from historic neighborhoods, established residential districts, and downtown living as you will find a wide array of choices from single family homes, apartments, condos, and mixed-use development. 


HISTORIC DISTRICTS

The City of Oswego has four historic districts that include both residential and commercial properties. Each district has a unique and interesting history as well as beautiful homes.
 

The Franklin Square Historic District

The Franklin Square Historic District is a collection of 93 residential and commercial buildings surrounding Franklin Square in the City of Oswego. 

Franklin Square was originally laid out in 1797 by Simeon Dewitt, Surveyor General of New York State. The historic estates surrounding Franklin Square were built between 1825 and 1900 by prominent merchants, ship builders, doctors, and factory owners. The homes represent most major 19th Century architectural styles including Federal, Greek Revival, Gothic Revival, Queen Anne, Italianate, and Second Empire. The neighborhood is within walking distance of both downtown amenities and waterfront recreation.


The Washington Square Historic District

The Washington Square Historic District consists of 39 residential, commercial and governmental buildings surrounding Washington Square on the City of Oswego’s East Side.

Washington Square was laid out in 1797 by Simeon Dewitt when the City was originally planned and designed. The historic district was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2009. The district encompasses the historic civic and religious center of the City’s East side and includes many prominent historic residences. Notable properties include the Richardson-Bates House, the Oswego Public Library, and the Oswego County Courthouse.
 

The Montcalm Park Historic District

The Montcalm Park Historic District is made up of 28 buildings surrounding Montcalm Park on the City’s West Side.

The historic district is adjacent to the Franklin Square Historic District and is also only a few blocks from the Lake Ontario waterfront. This district is unique as its centerpiece is the wedge shaped Montcalm Park, with intact historic details such as a wrought iron perimeter fence, circular benches and elliptical pathways. Other notable properties include the 1847 Myron Pardee House at 8 Montcalm Street and the 1848 Luther Wright House at 40 West Schuyler Street.


The Kingsford Historic District

The Kingsford Historic District was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013 and includes 76 residential, commercial, and religious properties.

The district is located on the City’s West side situated between downtown and the Oswego Hospital. The district is named after the prominent Kingsford family who was directly and indirectly responsible for the construction of many of the district’s homes, churches, and commercial buildings. Notable properties include the Thomson Kingsford house at 150 West Third Street, the Higgins house at 40 West Oneida Street, and the West Baptist Church at 39 West Mohawk Street.
 

Additional Neighborhood Districts include:

Oak Hill

Kingsford Woods

Woodridge

Community Resources

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