The Hower House Museum in Akron, Ohio, was built in 1871 by wealthy industrialist John Henry Hower. After moving to Akron in 1865, Hower became successful in industries such as milling and cereal production, allowing him to construct an elaborate home that reflected both his wealth and status. Architect Jacob Snyder designed the house, which became one of the most impressive residences in the region.

The mansion was built in the Second Empire Italianate style and featured a distinctive mansard roof and a tall tower that could be seen from a distance. With twenty-eight rooms, the home was filled with imported furnishings and decorative items collected from around the world. The layout of the home was also unique, based on a design known as the Akron Plan, which was commonly used in churches during that time.

The Hower family lived in the home for over one hundred years, using it as both a residence and a symbol of their social standing in Akron. The family was known for hosting gatherings and entertaining guests, and the home became a central part of the local elite social scene. Over time, multiple generations of the Hower family lived and died within its walls.

As Akron grew and changed, the house remained a lasting reminder of the city's industrial past. By the late twentieth century, the home was no longer used as a private residence and was eventually donated to the University of Akron. This marked a new chapter in the building's history as it transitioned from a family home into a preserved historic site.

Today, the Hower House operates as a museum open to the public. It showcases the lifestyle of the Hower family and the history of Akron during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The home remains one of the best-preserved examples of historic architecture in the area and continues to attract visitors interested in both history and mystery.