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: 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
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
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
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
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
Fruitlands Fairy Forest
Calling All Woodland Fairies and Gnomes! The Fruitlands Fairy Forest is back! While living at Fruitlands, 10-year-old Louisa May Alcott wrote in her diary that she “had a lovely time in the woods with Anna and Lizzie. We were fairies, and made gowns and paper wings. I ‘flied’ the highest… Read More
Long Hill House & Garden Tour
Visit Long Hill’s breathtaking gardens and stately historic house for a guided tour. Enjoy the rich history of this grand country estate, home of the Sedgwick family, as you learn about the elegant lifestyle of wealthy Bostonians on the North Shore, and the artisans who created it. The tour takes… 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. 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: 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