My Private Tour of the Lippitt House Museum: Providence's Victorian Treasure in Rhode Island
Providence, Rhode Island ✈
Providence, Rhode Island, is full of historical gems, and one of the highlights is the Lippitt House Museum. Situated at 199 Hope Street on the city’s East Side, the Lippitt House is a stunning example of Victorian architecture and a window into life during the late 19th century. I recently had the chance to take a private tour, and I can confidently say it was one of the most insightful experiences I’ve had exploring historical homes. This is largely thanks to my excellent tour guide Jane, who demonstrated an impressive breadth of knowledge about the house, its history, and the family who lived there.
What is the Lippitt House Museum?
The Lippitt House is a meticulously preserved Victorian mansion that serves as a museum today. Built in 1865, the house is a prime example of High Victorian style, featuring intricate details and craftsmanship both inside and out. It’s managed by Preserve Rhode Island, a nonprofit organization dedicated to historic preservation. The museum offers visitors a chance to step back in time and understand the lives of both the affluent family who owned it and the staff who worked there.
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“The house stands as an example of the craftsmanship, innovation, and complexity of Victorian life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply someone who appreciates architecture and design, a visit to the Lippitt House is well worth your time.”
Location
The house is located in the College Hill Historic District, a neighborhood known for its well-preserved architecture and proximity to Brown University and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). Hope Street, where the Lippitt House stands, is lined with historic homes and lush trees, making it a fitting setting for such a grand residence. Parking in the area is relatively easy, though it’s also a pleasant walk if you’re staying nearby. The surrounding area is rich with history, offering plenty of opportunities to explore other landmarks and enjoy the charm of Providence’s East Side.
The History of the House
The Lippitt House was commissioned by Henry Lippitt, a wealthy textile magnate who also served as the Governor of Rhode Island from 1875 to 1877. The house was designed as a showcase of his wealth and refined taste. It remained in the Lippitt family for generations, with various descendants adding their own touches over the years. In 1981, the last family member to reside in the home donated it to Preserve Rhode Island, ensuring its legacy would be preserved for public appreciation.
Built during the post-Civil War period, the Lippitt House reflects the optimism and economic growth of the time. The house’s construction employed local artisans and imported materials, combining the best of Rhode Island craftsmanship with global influences. My guide pointed out that the house was also a symbol of the industrial prosperity that defined the region during the 19th century.
The Lippitt Family
The Lippitts were among the prominent families of Rhode Island during the 19th century. Henry Lippitt was the patriarch when the house was built, and his wealth came from the thriving textile industry. The family played an active role in the social and political spheres of their time, hosting gatherings that brought together influential figures. The Lippitts’ affluence is evident in every aspect of the home’s design and furnishings, from the imported marble to the intricately carved woodwork. Henry’s children and grandchildren continued to contribute to the community, further cementing the family’s legacy in Rhode Island.
The Tour: Room by Room
The private tour began in the grand foyer, which sets the tone for the rest of the house. The foyer is a study in opulence, featuring a stunning black-and-white marble floor and a sweeping staircase with a richly carved banister. My guide pointed out the attention to detail in the woodwork, which includes motifs inspired by nature and classical design. The high ceilings and elaborate light fixtures make an immediate impression, showcasing the craftsmanship of the era.
From there, we moved to the formal parlor. This room is a masterpiece of Victorian decor, with gilded mirrors, ornate wallpaper, and plush furnishings. The guide explained how the Lippitts used this space for entertaining, often hosting dinners and receptions. One of the highlights here is the grand piano, which would have been a centerpiece of social gatherings. Music played an important role in Victorian society, serving as both entertainment and a display of cultural refinement.
Next, we visited the dining room. This room is both grand and functional, featuring a large mahogany dining table and sideboards laden with silver and crystal. The walls are adorned with rich wood paneling and hand-painted details. My guide explained the rituals of Victorian dining, from the use of multiple courses to the formal dress codes observed by both hosts and guests. The dining room also features a collection of china and glassware, offering a glimpse into the family’s taste and social status.
The library was another highlight. It’s a cozy yet elegant room with bookshelves filled with volumes that belonged to the Lippitt family. The guide noted that this room was likely a retreat for the men of the house, a place for reading, correspondence, and perhaps a quiet conversation over a glass of brandy. The library’s design includes a heavy desk and comfortable chairs, creating an atmosphere of intellectual pursuit and leisure.
Upstairs, we explored several bedrooms, each reflecting the personality of its original occupant. The master bedroom is particularly striking, with its four-poster bed, intricate textiles, and a fireplace adorned with hand-painted tiles. The children’s rooms are simpler but still showcase high-quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. My guide described how the family’s daily routines and personal preferences were reflected in these spaces, offering a more intimate view of their lives.
The servants’ quarters and kitchen area provide a stark contrast to the grandeur of the main living spaces. These areas are more utilitarian but no less fascinating, offering a glimpse into the lives of the people who worked behind the scenes to keep the household running smoothly. My guide provided insight into the daily routines of the servants, as well as the technological innovations of the time, such as the early plumbing and heating systems. The kitchen’s large stove and pantry showcased the scale of operations required to support a household of this size.
We also explored the house’s hallways and smaller nooks, where additional details like decorative tiles, stained glass windows, and period artwork added depth to the experience. My guide explained how these seemingly minor elements contributed to the overall aesthetic and functionality of the house.
Fun Facts about the Lippitt House Museum:
Architectural Features:
• The house is built in the Renaissance Revival style, a subset of Victorian architecture, characterized by symmetrical facades and elaborate decorative details. The Lippitt House exemplifies these traits with its ornate brackets, columns, and cornices.
• The exterior features brownstone and brick construction, showcasing materials that were popular in the mid-19th century.
Preservation Efforts:
• After being donated to Preserve Rhode Island, extensive restoration work was undertaken to maintain the house’s original details. This includes preservation of the intricate stenciling on ceilings and walls, which is rare to find intact.
• The museum also focuses on preserving and showcasing the original furnishings and decor, many of which belonged to the Lippitt family.
Cultural Significance:
• The Lippitt House represents the economic and social fabric of Providence during the Industrial Revolution. It reflects the wealth generated by the textile mills that were a cornerstone of Rhode Island's economy.
• The house is part of the College Hill Historic District, which is a designated National Historic Landmark for its collection of preserved colonial and Victorian-era architecture.
Programming and Events:
• The museum hosts educational programs, including workshops, lectures, and tours, to engage the community and visitors with Rhode Island’s history.
• Special events, like Victorian-themed teas and holiday tours, provide immersive experiences into the lifestyle of the period.
Innovative Features of the Time:
• The house was equipped with state-of-the-art amenities for its time, such as central heating, gas lighting, and indoor plumbing. These features highlight the technological advancements available to affluent families in the 19th century.
Lippitt Legacy:
• Beyond Henry Lippitt’s role as a textile magnate and governor, his descendants also made notable contributions. For example, his son, Charles W. Lippitt, served as Governor of Rhode Island from 1895 to 1897.
• The family’s involvement in civic and political life made them a significant influence in shaping Rhode Island’s history.
Unique Decorative Elements:
• The house features original stencil work on ceilings and walls, a hallmark of high Victorian interiors.
• Stained glass windows and imported marble add layers of luxury and artistry, symbolizing the Lippitts’ status and taste.
The Lippitt House Museum is more than just a beautiful old home; it’s a portal to a bygone era. Through its well-preserved interiors and the knowledgeable commentary of my guide, I gained a deeper understanding of the social and cultural dynamics of 19th-century Providence. The house stands as an example of the craftsmanship, innovation, and complexity of Victorian life. Whether you’re a history buff or simply someone who appreciates architecture and design, a visit to the Lippitt House is well worth your time. Its location in the heart of Providence makes it easy to incorporate into a day of exploring the city’s rich history and culture. With so much to learn and admire, the Lippitt House Museum is an essential stop for anyone visiting Rhode Island.
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