The Smith family home, later known as “The Mansion,” was built by Peter Smith in 1804, and the family, including nine year old Gerrit, moved there from Utica NY in 1806. Gerrit began managing the land business at age 22 and believed his wealth was a divine gift to be spent on the less fortunate rather than on conspicuous consumption for his family. The home became a model of multicultural diversity and benevolence, where Native Americans, African Americans, foreign nationals, vagrants, the poor, and others in need rested and dined with the Smith family, alongside prominent reformers such as abolitionists, women’s rights activists, and temperance advocates seeking refuge from regions of reform activity. Guests were renewed by the family’s kindness, optimism, and money. For three decades, Gerrit and Ann Smith also provided refuge to people escaping slavery on the Underground Railroad and helped fugitives establish new lives.