Wistariahurst

Wistariahurst
U.S. National Register of Historic Places
Wistariahurst
Location	Holyoke, Massachusetts
Coordinates
Built	1848
Architect	Multiple
Architectural style	No Style Listed
NRHP Reference #	73000295
Added to NRHP	April 23, 1973

Wistariahurst is a historic former estate located at 238 Cabot Street in Holyoke, Massachusetts. It was built in 1848 for William Skinner, the owner of a successful silk spinning and textile business. The oldest part of the mansion was built while Skinner lived in Williamsburg, and was moved to Holyoke in 1874 when he relocated his business there after a devastating flood. Additions were made to the premises in 1913 and 1927. 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. It is now operated as the Wistariahurst Museum, and is open to the public.

The property was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1973.

Visiting today

Wistariahurst Museum today provides a view of the lives and tastes of the two generations of the Skinner family that lived in it. 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. The 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.

See also

• National Register of Historic Places listings in Hampden County, Massachusetts

External links

• Wistariahurst Official Website