Immerse Yourself in the Traditions, History and Landscapes of New England
Fruitlands Museum is a National Historic Landmark named after Bronson Alcott's transcendentalist commune called “Fruitlands,” founded in 1843.
The Fruitlands Farmhouse
The Fruitlands Farmhouse was home to Bronson Alcott from June 1843 to January 1844. Alcott, an educator and philosopher whose Temple School in Boston gained him international fame, believed childhood education must be moral, intellectual, spiritual and physical.
At Fruitlands, Alcott was able to withdraw from institutions and social structures for a much needed retreat and to explore the relationships between individuals and their world.
The Shaker Office
Our Shaker Office, built in 1796 as an office, and moved to Fruitlands Museums in 1920 by founder, Clara Sears, after the Harvard Shaker village closed, contains exhibits on the nearby Harvard and Shirley Shaker communities founded by Ann Lee and her followers in 1781.
The Native American Gallery
Our Native American Gallery includes ethnographic materials from New England and across North America.
The Art Gallery
Our Fine Art Gallery exhibits our collection of Hudson River Landscapes and 19th century vernacular portraits as well as special exhibits.
Fine Dining in the Tea Room
Established in the 1940s, the Tea Room has a magnificent view overlooking the Nashua River valley and Mount Wachusett. Whether you’re here for a casual lunch with friends, or have reserved the facility for a special event, we guarantee that your experience at the Tea Room will be memorable.
Our Gorgeous Grounds
The Fruitlands Museum property has over 200 acres and 2 miles of walking trails for visitors to take a self-guided tour of our historic features, including the Willard Site, the Native Hunting & Gathering area, the Old Union Turnpike and the meadows. Additionally, our trails offer the opportunity for a relaxing hike, or birdwatching of 55 documented species of birds.
Casting Call
Fruitlands Museum is hosting a dramatic reading event on September 24 based on Ilyon Woo's new, exciting book The Great Divorce. We are holding an open CASTING CALL for actors to read various roles. Check out http://ilyonwoo.com/casting-call/ for details.
3:28 minute book trailer for The Great Divorce
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Your Donations are Appreciated
As a nonprofit art museum, Fruitlands depends on your generosity. Please make your donation today.
