Akron is privileged to have a beautiful historical landmark in the heart of the citiy. The Hower House is a Victorian style home that was built in 1871 by Akron Industrialist John Hower with the assistance of John Henry. The house is built in the Second Italianate style and covers over two acres of land beside the University of Akron. The mansion is three floors and has a ballroom on the top floor. The Hower family occupied the home for 100 years spanning three generations.  The Hower family donated the Hower House to The University of Akron in 1971.

Hower was a leading industrialist in the cereal industry. The Hower Oats Company was a fixture in Akron until it was sold to the Quaker Oats Company. The house is known as a lasting symbol of an era of elegance in America.

The Hower House is funded by private donations, Friends of Hower House, Hower House Victorians and The University of Akron. The efforts of the volunteer groups keep the Hower House in beautiful condition and well managed.