Longwood was named after its long octagonal shape. The home's builder, Haller Nutt, intended it to be a grand statement of his wealth and status, and he spared no expense in its construction. However, Nutt died before the house was completed, and his family could not finish the interior. As a result, the home remained unfinished and unoccupied for over 100 years. The name "Longwood" became synonymous with the house during this time, and it has remained so ever since.