Whistler House Museum of Art facts for kids
The Whistler House Museum of Art, birthplace of James McNeill Whistler.
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| Location | 243 Worthen Street, Lowell, Massachusetts, USA |
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The Whistler House Museum of Art is a special place in Lowell, Massachusetts. It's the house where a famous artist named James McNeill Whistler was born. Today, it's a museum where you can see beautiful artworks. The museum shows pieces from its own collection and also art made by local artists. It's a great spot to learn about art and history!
Contents
The Story of the Whistler House
Building a Home in 1823
This historic house was built in 1823. It was created by a company called the Locks and Canals Company. This company was very important for building canals and managing water power in Lowell. They built the house for their manager.
Famous People Who Lived Here
The first person to live in the house was Paul Moody. He was a brilliant inventor and a master mechanic. Later, in 1834, George Washington Whistler moved in. He was the Chief Engineer for the Locks and Canals Company. George lived there with his wife, Anna Matilda McNeill Whistler. Their son, James, who would become the famous artist, was born in this very house in 1834.
In 1837, the Whistler family moved to Russia. Another engineer, James B. Francis, then moved into the house. He and his wife, Sarah, raised their six children there.
Becoming a Museum
Many years later, in 1907, the Lowell Art Association, Inc., bought the house. They had a wonderful idea to turn it into a museum. The Whistler House Museum of Art officially opened its doors in 1908. It has been sharing art and history ever since!
What You Can See at the Museum
Exploring the Art Collections
When you visit the Whistler House Museum of Art, you can explore its amazing permanent collection. The first and second floors, including the hallways and bedrooms, are filled with art. One special room is dedicated to the etchings of James McNeill Whistler. Etchings are a type of printmaking where an artist draws on a metal plate.
Artist Studios and New Exhibits
The very top floor of the house is a working art studio. This means artists can create new artworks right there! At the back of the house, you'll find the Parker Gallery. This gallery often features new and exciting art exhibits.
The museum is open every day from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It's a fantastic place to spend an afternoon learning about art.
Images for kids
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The Courtyard of Titian's House in Venice, 1880
