Aldrich was a dominant and controversial figure in the Senate, exercising significant control over the legislative process.

Abby's son Winthrop deeded the house to the Rhode Island Historical Society in 1974, and Aldrich House currently serves as the Society headquarters and offers changing Rhode Island historical displays.

In a 30-year career in that body, Aldrich was a resolutely pro-business Republican, supporting protectionist tariffs, frequently leading successful attempts to defeat or water down attempts to lower them, at times despite popular support for lowered tariffs.

[5] The main block of the house is a three-story wood-frame structure resting on a stuccoed brick foundation.

The main block is five bays wide and four deep, and is clad in wood clapboard with corner quoining.

The decorations on this wing are slightly simpler than those on the main block, but the roof railings match.