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
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
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
A Walk in the Park: Guided Tour of deCordova Sculpture Park
Join a deCordova Guide for a tour through the park. Each tour is a lively conversation about artists, art-making processes, materials, and deCordova’s rich history. Ask about your favorite sculpture, new acquisition, or the history of campus – from the glaciers cutting the landscape to how Julien and Lizzie de Cordova’s home became a… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Cupola with a View
This is our most Instagram-able tour experience and a particular treat for those interested in the architecture of the Great House and its surrounding property. You’ll gain insight into the architectural choices made by David Adler as he designed and built the Great House, the second home the Cranes built… Read More
Naumkeag Backstairs Tour
Step behind the blue velvet curtain that once hid the servants’ staircase and explore the hidden side of life at Naumkeag during the Gilded Age. This special behind-the-scenes tour takes you beyond the main rooms and into the rarely-seen spaces where the real work of running a grand country estate… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: Little Women at Castle Hill
This 90-minute guided walking tour highlights the magnificent sites at Castle Hill where the acclaimed 2019 movie was filmed. Hear behind-the-scenes stories about the production. Experience the places where Timothée Chalamet, Florence Pugh, Meryl Streep, and other actors filmed scenes. Learn the fascinating history of Castle Hill and the family… Read More
Castle Hill Tour: The Cat's Meow
Our children’s tour, The Cat’s Meow is designed for children age 3-8. 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 the party! Can you help a family… 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: 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