AUBURN – One of the oldest houses in Auburn, built in 1796, will begin a new chapter in its history on Friday, June 28.

Responsibility for the Knight House, located in West Pitch Park near the Great Falls of the Androscoggin River, will be formally transferred to the Androscoggin Historical Society by Auburn Heritage, Inc., in a ceremony at 4:30 p.m. at the house.

Auburn Mayor Jonathan Labonte will be among speakers marking the occasion. The house then will be open until 6 p.m. for tours conducted by members of the society.

The house has outlasted 12 owners and endured six moves. Located originally on Cross Street, nearly a mile away, the house arrived at its current location in the 1970s after it was taken over from the Auburn Urban Renewal Authority.

Among its long-term owners and residents was the Knight family; hence, its designation as the Knight House. It is the oldest frame house in the Goff Corner area, that is, downtown Auburn, and is furnished as of the late 1800s. It is accompanied by the one-room Downing Shoe Shop, a small cobbler’s work shed built in the 1790s that shows tools and methods of the 19th century.

For many years the house and shop have been cared for and tours arranged by Auburn Heritage, Inc. However, when membership dwindled President Marilyn Wilkinson approached the Androscoggin Historical Society, which agreed to take over the responsibility for the contents and programming of these historic buildings, which actually are owned by the City of Auburn.

David A. Garcelon, former chair of the AHS Collections Committee, worked with attorney Richard A. Trafton to accomplish the transfer. AHS board member David Colby Young served as a contact with the Auburn city government. The Auburn Department of Public Works will continue to maintain the grounds and buildings.

“This acquisition expands significantly the role of the Androscoggin Historical Society,” said AHS President Betty Young. “We are pleased to be able to help preserve this part of our local history and to expand our programs. We look forward to working with the community on this.”

The society is inviting volunteers to step forward to learn about the Knight House and then to serve as tour guides occasionally at their convenience. Contact the society at 786-0584 for more information.

The Knight House and shoe shop will be among sites to visit during the Lewiston/Auburn Art Walk on June 28.