Wistariahurst Museum

The Story We Weave
Wistariahurst Museum, originally the home of prominent silk manufacturer, William Skinner and his family, has stood as an example of elegance and fine architecture since 1874. The buildings and grounds were owned continually by the Skinner family until 1959, when Katharine Skinner Kilborne, the youngest child of William and Sarah Skinner, and her heirs gave Wistariahurst to the City of Holyoke for cultural and educational purposes.

Today, Wistariahurst Museum reflects the lives and tastes of both generations of the Skinner family. The museum features original leather wall coverings, columns, elaborate woodwork and an interesting tale of how two generations perceived and used the house very differently. The museum's permanent collection includes decorative arts; paintings and prints, textiles and a rich manuscript collection of family and local papers. Wistariahurst Museum offers a wide variety of programs and events including: workshops, concerts, lectures and demonstrations. The museum is also available for private rental and group tours.

House Tours on Hiatus for August

The main house at Wistariahurst Museum will not be open for historic house tours during regularly scheduled hours of operation for the month of August. Please contact the museum for special appointments. During this time, the museum will undergo interior repairs, maintenance and restoration work. The Carriage House and Gift Shop will remain open for our patrons every Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, 12 to 4 p.m. The Carriage House building features exhibits, a theater area and gift shop. Guests can also pick up garden brochures and take a self-guided tour of the grounds. Historic House Tours will resume in September.

VISIT CREATING HOLYOKE FOR PHOTOGRAPHS AND OTHER RESOURCES

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