Described as “the grandest house west of the Mississippi” when it was built in 1892, this elegant Queen Anne-style mansion became a museum after a detailed restoration by QUINN EVANS | ARCHITECTS. After more than 50 years of vacancy (and a brief stint as a bed and breakfast), the house and its contents had survived largely intact. This included original furnishings such as Tiffany lamps, a gold-leafed settee, and chandeliers still illuminated with the original Edison bulbs. Nationally-recognized specialists in historic interiors brought their expertise to the restoration of hand-painted canvas walls, ornate plaster friezes, and stained glass, as well as the replication of upholstery, textiles and decorative paint treatments. New building systems ensure the proper environment for the preservation of the historic furnishings. A new Visitor Center at the back of the property houses ticket sales, an orientation exhibit, gift shop, public restrooms and administrative space. |
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