Old Manse bookshelf

Open Books: Linocut Bookplate Workshop

190 years ago, while sitting in the upstairs study of the Old Manse, Ralph Waldo Emerson wrote in Nature that “the world shall be to us an open book.” His words set the stage for many literary greats who lived and visited at the Old Manse, and who took inspiration… Read More

seedling

Growing Together: Seed Saving and Collecting Workshop

Discover the timeless practice of seed saving and learn how gardeners have preserved plant diversity for generations. This workshop explores techniques for collecting, storing, and sharing seeds, with practical guidance for selecting healthy plants, harvesting seeds, and maintaining resilient gardens. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced grower, you’ll… Read More

Cape Ann Pride Masquerade Ball

Masquerade Ball at the Crane Estate

Join us for Cape Ann Pride’s Masquerade Ball, an evening of mystery and queer glam at one of the North Shore’s most beautiful settings — the Great House at Castle Hill, with the Grand Allee stretching out toward the ocean. Masks encouraged, formal/semi-formal attire welcome —… Read More

wallpaper

Spotlight Pop-Up Talks: Chinese Art in Colonial Revival Homes

Discover something new with your visit through our free pop-up Spotlight Talk Series at Long Hill. Offered throughout the season, these 15 minute engaging talks explore a variety of rotating themes to highlight the rich history and collections found throughout the property. Led by knowledgeable staff,… Read More

Mary Rose O'Connell

Opening Reception – Seashores and Gardens

Join us from 1-3PM for an opening reception to “Seashores and Gardens,” a one-woman-exhibit by award winning oil painter and Massachusetts local, Mary Rose O’Connell. Her exhibition at the Wayside Gallery consists of a curated selection of oil paintings of New England’s crashing coastlines, for which Mary Rose is especially… Read More

Nature Journaling

Landmarks & Landscapes: Nature Journaling Workshop

Looking to explore the Fruitlands Trails? Connect with nature? Delve into your creative side? Look no further! Join us for a nature journaling workshop at Fruitlands Museum! Our experienced educators will guide you on a leisurely walk through the Fruitlands Trail System, stopping at certain points to explore the… Read More

Old Manse Exterior Summer

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

bryant tour

Literary Legacy: A Guided Tour of the William Cullen Bryant Homestead

Step into the world of 19th-century poet, journalist, and conservationist William Cullen Bryant at his beloved family homestead in Cummington, Massachusetts. This guided tour offers a look inside Bryant’s thoughtfully preserved country estate, where he spent his formative years and later returned for inspiration and retreat. Explore period… Read More