Originally built in 1903 as the manufacturing facility for “Dr. Kilmer’s Swamp-Root,” The Kilmer Building in Binghamton, New York is a Renaissance-style structure that stands tall at the corner of Chenango and Lewis Streets. The building has a rich history that is closely tied to the Kilmer Family and their successful Swamp Root tonic, which was marketed as a “medicinal formula” for curing liver, kidney, and bladder ailments. The story of Swamp Root, and the Kilmer Family, is closely tied to the city’s growth as a center of manufacturing in the late 19th and early 20th.
Today, The Kilmer Building provides retail and business space, as well as upscale housing. Thanks to people like the Whitneys and Mr. Dietrich, it will stand for many more years as a Binghamton landmark and a monument to the entrepreneurial spirit of Willis Kilmer.
All proceeds support the restoration of Kilmer Mansion!
Old Bones: The Story of Exterminator A documentary by WSKG’s filmmaker, Brian Frey – the Emmy winning writer and director of more than 20 documentary films.
Old Bones tells the story of Exterminator’s rise to national stardom in the years following his stunning victory at the 1918 Kentucky Derby. Exterminator was owned by Binghamton’s Swamp Root King, Willis Sharpe Kilmer. Frey’s film also explores Kilmer’s efforts to become one of horse racing’s premier owners and breeders.
Join us for an evening of hot cocoa and history at the mansion!
We are learning all about Binghamton’s Castle on the Hill, formerly New York State Inebriate Asylum and Binghamton State Hospital.
Presented by Roger Luther – Broome County Historian & Director of the Preservation Association of the Southern Tier.
Pre-Registration required
Join us for an evening of warm apple cider and history presentation at the mansion!
We are exploring Binghamton’s abandoned and deserted landmarks! Presented by Roger Luther – Broome County Historian & Director of the Preservation Association of the Southern Tier.
$10/person – pre-register online or walk-in and pay cash at the door.
The Trolley Tasting Tour returns! This time we have tales of haunted happenings & stories of souls walking the mansions!
Climb aboard! Tour three of Binghamton’s most historic homes in one day & enjoy a tasting at each stop!
Kilmer, Phelp’s, and Roberson Mansions are opening their doors for special guided tours. At each stop, guests will sample New York State beverages and enjoy local foods and treats!
Limited spots available! July’s tour sold out!
Tours start at 11:00 AM, 11:30 AM, and 12:00 PM.
*Must be 21 or older to attend.