The Florence Griswold Museum stands as a jewel in the historic village of Old Lyme, Connecticut. Nestled on 12 beautiful acres, this cultural treasure celebrates the perfect blend of art, history, and nature in one captivating location. The museum offers visitors a unique experience where they can explore changing art exhibitions, wander through a historic 1817 mansion, and enjoy scenic gardens that showcase Connecticut’s natural beauty.
Located conveniently between New York and Boston along the Connecticut shoreline, the Florence Griswold Museum holds special significance as the former center of the Old Lyme Art Colony and a major hub of American Impressionism. When you visit Old Lyme, you’ll discover this museum sits in the heart of a charming mile-long historic district filled with exquisite shops, fine dining options, and a cozy inn. The museum regularly hosts guided tours, gallery talks, and special events that bring its collections to life for visitors of all ages.
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Florence Griswold Museum
The Florence Griswold Museum is a hidden gem nestled in Old Lyme, Connecticut. Housed in a beautifully restored 1817 mansion, this museum tells the story of American Impressionism and the art colony that flourished here in the early 20th century. You’ll step back in time as you explore the historic house where artists once boarded and painted directly on the door panels.
Art lovers will appreciate the museum’s impressive collection of American Impressionist works. The Krieble Gallery showcases rotating exhibits alongside permanent collection highlights focused on community, Connecticut’s environment, and artistic creativity. Currently, you can see “Their Kindred Earth” featuring photographs by William Earle Williams that highlight overlooked African American historical sites.
Beyond the galleries, take time to wander the stunning gardens and grounds. The property combines art, history, and nature in a peaceful setting along the Lieutenant River. Special events throughout the year include the whimsical Wee Faerie Village in the fall, where tiny fairy houses transform the landscape into a magical experience.
You’ll find something new with each visit as the museum regularly updates exhibitions and offers educational programs for all ages. Whether you’re examining the painted panels in the historic house or enjoying the solitude of the gardens, the Florence Griswold Museum offers a perfect blend of art and history in Connecticut’s charming shoreline region.
Rating: 4.8 (528 reviews)
Location: 96 Lyme St, Old Lyme, CT 06371
Contact: (860) 434-5542
Website: Visit Website
History of the Florence Griswold Museum
The Florence Griswold Museum’s rich history spans from its beginnings as the home of its namesake to its evolution into a nationally recognized art institution. This special place has deep connections to American Impressionism and has preserved an important chapter of our artistic heritage.
Founding and Early Years
The story begins with Florence Griswold herself, born on Christmas Day in 1850 in the charming house that now bears her museum’s name. Located on Lyme Street in Old Lyme, Connecticut, this wonderful home would later become a pivotal location in American art history.
When Florence fell on hard times, she opened her home to artists, unknowingly creating what would become the Old Lyme Art Colony. This colony became a major center for American Impressionism in the early 20th century.
In 1936, as Florence neared the end of her life, the Florence Griswold Association formed with the goal of creating a museum to honor the Lyme Art Colony. Though they initially lost a bid to purchase the property, their vision would eventually come to life.
Evolution into an Art Center
After Florence Griswold’s death in 1937, her beloved home began its transformation into the museum you can visit today. The Florence Griswold Association continued its mission to preserve this important artistic landmark.
The museum gained formal recognition when it achieved accreditation by the American Association of Museums in 1978. This credential, which it has maintained continuously since then, speaks to the high standards and quality of the institution.
In 1993, the Florence Griswold Museum received the prestigious designation as a National Historic Landmark, cementing its importance in American cultural history. Today, the museum is renowned for its outstanding collection of American Impressionist paintings.
Art Collections and Exhibitions
The Florence Griswold Museum houses a remarkable collection of American art with a special focus on the Connecticut art colony that flourished in Old Lyme. Visitors can enjoy rotating exhibitions that showcase both historical and contemporary works.
American Impressionism
The museum is best known for its impressive collection of American Impressionist paintings. These works highlight the important role Old Lyme played as an art colony in the early 20th century. Artists like Childe Hassam were frequent visitors to Florence Griswold’s boarding house, which became the center of the art community.
The “From Art Colony to Connecticut Collection” exhibition presents highlights in three thematic clusters, showing how the artists were inspired by the beautiful Connecticut landscape. You’ll see stunning landscapes capturing the unique light and natural beauty of the region.
Many paintings depict the charming local scenes, including the Lieutenant River and the historic buildings of Old Lyme. These works help you understand why this area became such an important center for American art.
Contemporary Art Installations
While honoring its historical roots, the museum also embraces contemporary art. Modern installations create thoughtful dialogue between past and present artistic movements. You’ll find rotating exhibitions featuring working artists who continue the creative legacy of Old Lyme.
The museum grounds include outdoor sculpture gardens where you can wander and experience three-dimensional art within the natural landscape. These installations change periodically, giving you a new experience with each visit.
Recent exhibitions have included important works like William Earle Williams’ photographs documenting sites of African-American history. This exhibition, which ran until June 2022, demonstrated the museum’s commitment to diverse perspectives in art.
The museum also showcases Connecticut crafts, including a notable exhibition of historic quilts and bed covers from New London County created between 1750-1825.
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