Plummer House

Date Modified: 06/03/2008 3:22 PM

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Dr. Henry and Mrs. Plummer's home was built on 60 acres of land purchased in 1916. The house was completed eight years later in 1924. A stone water tower - all the stone for the house was quarried on the site - provided the water supply for the 49-room mansion. The long staircase is lined with Italian marble and lighted by two-story high, leaded glass windows. The main floor reception room is 50 feet long. A grand ballroom occupies the third floor. Mrs. Plummer gave the house and 11 acres to the Rochester Art Center and the site eventually became city property.

Today the home serves as a tourist attraction, facility for weddings, receptions, meetings, instructional classes and parties for groups up to 100 people. Rental of the house includes the use of the grounds which cover 11 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, formal gardens, bird trail, quarry, and water tower. The grounds are open to the public from sunrise to sunset except when the house is reserved for private functions.

Tours are scheduled every Wednesday from 1 to 5 p.m. and the first and third Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. during June, July and August. Private group tours of the house and grounds for 10 or more people may be arranged by contacting the Park and Recreation Department at 507-328-2525. Admission is $4 per person for private tour groups of 10 or more, $3 for adults for open house, self-guided tours, and children are free.