David Sayre hailed from a prominent family with roots in the early colonial history of New Jersey. Drawn by the promise of new opportunities and fertile land, he moved to what is now Otsego County in the early 1800s. The Sayre family was among the wave of settlers who were instrumental in the establishment of Milford. David L. Sayre and his wife Hulda built the Sayre house in 1810. He was a store owner and a land surveyor. He served Milford as the County Justice, Town Librarian, Inspector of Schools, and Fence Viewer.
The Store
David and his brother, Joel, worked together in the store behind their house. This Store was a communication hub for the community and served many purposes. They lent money, rented horses, wrote and read letters for illiterate customers. The Store sold fabric, ceramics, tea, alcohol, and sugar from all over the world.
The House
Come take a tour and explore 1830s America, a new country finding its cultural identity, through the eyes of the Sayre Family. We look forward to seeing you soon!
