Hill-Stead Museum
Hill-Stead Museum is a singular place, seamlessly blending the charm of a historic house with the allure of an art museum. This unique combination allows Hill-Stead to offer a more personal and enriching experience for visitors. Set within 152 acres of breathtaking natural beauty, the museum boasts an extraordinary collection of Impressionist and decorative art, meticulously displayed within its original, in-situ domestic interiors. The fusion of historical architecture and world-class artwork creates an immersive experience that distinguishes Hill-Stead from other institutions. Its founder, Theodate Pope Riddle (b.1867)—one of the first licensed female architects in the United States—designed Hill-Stead as her family home in 1901 and transformed it into a museum upon her death in 1946. Her creation and legacy represent a harmonious convergence of heritage, art, and nature.
The museum highlights the remarkable contributions of Cleveland residents Alfred and Ada Pope, and their daughter, Theodate. Alfred Pope (1842-1913), a self-made businessman and pioneering Impressionist art collector, played a crucial role in shaping the museum’s prestigious collection and supported Theodate in pursuing architecture rather than adhering to traditional gender roles. Ada Pope (1844-1920), Theodate’s mother, was a gracious and community-focused individual who helped establish Hill-Stead as a warm and welcoming home after relocating their family to Farmington. Theodate’s vision extended beyond architecture; she founded Avon Old Farms school for boys in honor of her father, championed historic preservation, and supported sustainable farming, creating a legacy that continues today.
Hill-Stead honors these contributions: Alfred’s collection and intellectual curiosity are showcased through the museum’s permanent installations and rotating exhibitions; Ada’s love for hosting and gardening is celebrated with an array of events, which include concerts, lectures, workshops, and family festivals, as well as with the preservation of the Sunken Garden; and Theodate’s architectural masterpiece and vision are maintained alongside Hill-Stead’s partnership with Clatter Ridge Farm to promote sustainable farming education.
Consider what it might be like to explore a living museum where history and art come to life. How does walking through a home designed by an early female architect deepen your understanding of early 20th-century American culture? Visit Hill-Stead and immerse yourself in the stories and art that continue to inspire and engage visitors from around the world.
Mission Statement
Hill-Stead Museum, a National Historic Landmark, serves diverse audiences in Connecticut and beyond as a welcoming place for learning, reflection and enjoyment. The museum develops, preserves, documents, displays and interprets its exceptional Impressionist paintings, 1901 historic house and 152-acre landscape for the benefit of present and future generations.
Theodate’s diary entry from May 9, 1889, during the family’s European Grand Tour in which she writes thoughts on Impressionism. Particularly striking is her statement: “Now the impressionists are interesting, but I doubt if any of the work they are now doing will last.”
A receipt for the purchase of The Blue Wave, Biarritz, (1862) in 1894. Alfred Pope frequently purchased works from Goupil, later known as Boussod Valadon.
Undated note from Theodate Pope to the McKim, Mead & White architectural firm regarding the planning process before construction commenced on Hill-Stead.
Undated memo with architectural notes written by Theodate Pope for the McKim, Mead & White firm.
Alfred & Ada Pope in their first automobile, a 1904 Model D White Steamer. Note the chauffeur and the right-hand drive, with the steering wheel on what is now the passenger side.
Frederick B. Cook, the 12 year-old son of Hill-Stead farm manager, Allen B. Cook, holding a bone “representing the first bone discovered” when the mastodon remains were unearthed at Hill-Stead in August 1913.