New Jersey is a state with a rich history, and some of America's most influential figures have made their homes here at one point or another. Gustav Stickley is one of the most prestigious New Jersey residents in history, as one of the leading figures in the American arts and crafts movement of the early 20th century. Today, history buffs and furniture aficionados can learn all about the history of this great American furniture designer and craftsman at Craftsman Farms in Parsippany-Troy Hills, Morris County.
Our Parsippany DWI defense lawyers love the following aspects of The Stickley Museum:
History of Craftsman Farms
Craftsman Farms is a log home which was built on 26 acres in 1911. Gustav Stickley built this house as a farm school for boys, using chestnut logs and local stone found on site. The main house on the estate was used as a "clubhouse" where workers, students, and guests could gather together for meals, meetings, and other activities. With spacious living and dining rooms measuring 50 feet, copper-hooded fireplaces, and tasteful decor, this log home was a natural meeting place. There was also a porch which opened to a farm vista, allowing for natural light and breezes to blow through.
Today, Craftsman Farms is a designated National Historic Landmark. It is also an Official Project of Save America's Treasures, which is a public-private partnership between the National Trust for Historic Preservation and the White House Millenium Council. This project focuses on preserving unique historic and cultural landmarks so that our children and grandchildren can enjoy them.
Noteworthy Objects in the Main Home
As you would expect, Craftsman Farms is overflowing with expertly crafted and exquisite pieces of furniture. This place is truly an antique lover's dream. Here are some of our favorite objects found throughout Craftsman Farms:
- Morris Chair - Located in the living room. Made with oak, leather, and round-headed brass tacks. Dating back to approximately 1901-1905.
- Hexagonal Library Table - Located in the living room. Made with oak, chestnut, leather, and round-headed brass tacks. Dating to approximately 1905-1909.
- Dining Room Sideboards - Made from oak, chestnut, and copper hardware. Dating to around 1910.
- Corner Cabinets - Located in the dining room. Made with oak and copper hardware. Dating to circa 1910-1911.
- Inlaid Chest of Drawers - Located in the girl's bedroom. Made with oak and inlays of copper and tinted wood. Dating to 1910-1911.
- Chest of Drawers - Located in the Master Bedroom. Made of oak with copper hardware. Dating to 1902-1903.
Programs
Craftsman Farms hosts a variety of fun events throughout the year. Some recent and upcoming programs that we think are worth checking out include:
- Stickley Weekend
- Emerging Scholars
- All Hallows Evening
- Farms Afield: Rose Valley
