About The Making of a Museum: A Fruitlands Story

Fruitlands, a museum created by Clara Endicott Sears, offers an immersive tour that delves into the lives of remarkable individuals and the fascinating objects that make it unique. Clara’s insatiable passion for collecting, history, education, and preservation led to the establishment of Fruitlands Museum. Join knowledgeable guides as they lead small groups through the museum’s buildings, sharing captivating stories and revealing spaces that are not typically accessible to the public. Through these tours, visitors gain a deeper understanding of the diverse groups represented at Fruitlands, including the Shakers, Transcendentalists, Indigenous Americans, and early 20th-century antiquarians.

Due to space constraints, tours are limited to groups of five and depart from the Wayside Building. Upon arrival, please check in at the reception desk in the gift shop before heading to the Wayside Building. Our guide will lead you through the buildings and transport the group between them using a golf cart.

Your tour ticket includes admission to the Museum. We welcome you to stay beyond your tour to enjoy the museum and grounds.

Cancellation Policy: In the event The Trustees cancels a program due to severe weather, low enrollment, or other circumstances, we will notify registrants by email and issue a full refund or transfer to another scheduled program within two weeks of the cancellation. To cancel a reservation, please contact Fruitlands Museum 7 days prior to the start of the program to receive a full refund. Refunds and transfers will not be granted for cancellations placed fewer than 7 days before the start of the program. 

Questions? Want to become a Trustees member and enjoy free and/or discounted programs? Contact ibohling@thetrustees.org.

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