A National Historic Landmark, it was the home of Roscoe Conkling (1829–1888), a powerful and controversial politician.

When Rutherford B. Hayes became president in 1877, Conkling violently opposed him on the issue of civil service reform.

In 1880, Conkling, as part of the "Stalwart" faction of the Republican Party, supported Grant's bid for a third term.

In the highly charged atmosphere while the New York legislature was deadlocked on this issue, crazed "Stalwart" supporter Charles J. Guiteau assassinated President Garfield.

[3] The Roscoe Conkling House was designed by Philip Hooker in the Greek Revival style.

After this time, the two story East (left) wing was added, as well as the current porch, dormer and chimney tops.

[4] It could be bought separately or together with another house at 1 Rutger Park that was designed by Andrew Jackson Davis.