American Contradictions: Enslavement and the American Revolution at The Old Manse
Many who fought for liberty and independence from Great Britain also enslaved other people – a contradiction that is at the heart of the American Revolution. At the Old Manse, we see this contradiction embodied in the life of William Emerson, “Patriot Preacher” and slave holder. We also… Read More
Attic Tours of The Old Manse
Uncover the hidden stories of The Old Manse on this thrilling tour that takes you to the historic third-floor attic! While the 254-year-old museum is renowned for its famous writers, philosophers, and Revolutionary War heroes, we’ll dive into the lives of those who stayed in this intriguing space—visiting ministers, enslaved… Read More
Home to Two Revolutions: Tour of the Old Manse
Home to Two Revolutions – From the American Revolution of 1775 through the literary revolution of the mid-19th century, on this house tour we share the stories of Manse residents, both the famous and the lesser-known, who influenced and responded to the 19th century social, political and cultural changes that… Read More
Flipping the Script: The Women of the Manse
Join us for a captivating tour where we flip the script and delve into the untold stories of the remarkable women who lived in The Old Manse! Rather than focusing solely on the famous men, we’ll shine a light on the inspiring voices and experiences of the women whose lives… Read More
Family-Friendly Tour of the Old Manse
Step into the incredible world of The Old Manse, a stunning 254-year-old house that witnessed the dawn of the American Revolutionary War and served as a sanctuary for renowned writers and artists! Join us for a special 30-minute tour designed just for families with young adventurers. Experience history like never… Read More
Pysanky Workshop at deCordova
Explore the art, symbolism, and joy in creating Pysanky. The Ukrainian pysanka egg was believed to possess an enormous power not only in the egg itself, which harbored the beginning of life, but also in the symbolic designs and colors which were written upon the egg. In this workshop, you… Read More
deCordova Performance Series with Eight Feet Tall and Participatory Ceili
Join us for an evening of traditional and old-style Irish dance and music with a performance by the quartet Eight Feet Tall and social céilí dancing for all. This participatory dance practice is a fun and simple group experience. No experience is needed and all dances will be taught –… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: The Cat's Meow
Our children’s tour, The Cat’s Meow is designed for children age 3-8. Imagination is one of our greatest treasures… imagine living in 1929 and visiting the Crane family at their summer home in Ipswich. The house is so big and Mrs. Crane’s kitty, Ptolemy, has gone missing just before… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Behind the Scenes in the Great House
Do you love checking out basements, kitchens, and other out of the way rooms? Our behind-the-scenes tour takes you past the beautiful facade and explores how the house ran when the Cranes were in residence. You’ll learn how a plumbing magnate incorporated the latest technology of the era into his… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Guest of the Cranes
It’s 1929 and you’ve just arrived after a long journey to see the Great House at Castle Hill and to visit your friends, the Crane family, of Crane plumbing fame. You are greeted at the door by household staff and your adventure as a “Guest of the Cranes” begins. A… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: The Cat's Meow
Our children’s tour, The Cat’s Meow is designed for children age 3-8. Imagination is one of our greatest treasures… imagine living in 1929 and visiting the Crane family at their summer home in Ipswich. The house is so big and Mrs. Crane’s kitty, Ptolemy, has gone missing just before… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Behind the Scenes in the Great House
Do you love checking out basements, kitchens, and other out of the way rooms? Our behind-the-scenes tour takes you past the beautiful facade and explores how the house ran when the Cranes were in residence. You’ll learn how a plumbing magnate incorporated the latest technology of the era into his… Read More