Yes, it's interesting to see the home and grounds where Emily Dickinson lived and wrote. We especially look forward to the restoration of her bedroom. It was some what interesting to see her brother's home next door (although it's pretty decrepit and it's musty smell was problematic for a young girl on the tour). But the real draw is the tour discussion--with a very knowledgable and enthusiastic guide who combines ED's life story with her writings. We had Casey, but I understand from others that the guides in general are all great.There are a couple of handicapped parking spaces right at the house. There are few steps and there are plenty of opportunities to sit while listening.Don't miss the displays of the "main characters" in the admission office. We did not have time for the audio tour of the grounds, but we intend to return another time.
This museum comprises the home of the poet and the home of her brother and sister-in-law next door, plus large grounds. The two houses are an interesting contrast. One is being restored from its modernized state to as near as possible to the way it was during the poet;s time there. The other has not been updated much and as a result the interior is similar to the way it was in the 19th century, but very dilapidated, so the issue is preservation. The museum is very professionally run and quite interesting. The homes are shown by guided tours and the tour guides are knowledgeable. If you can, take the longer tour, which includes both houses.
First and foremost, guide Harrison is worth his weight in gold. His tour was fantastic and really brought Ms. Dickinson to life. The house and grounds are well maintained. It was interesting to gain insight into a woman who outwardly seemed reclusive, but within the confines of home, family and friends was a force of intelligence. Also, enjoyed running into the museum's manager while in 30 Boltwood - the conversation certainly sparked an interest to research more of Ms. Dickinson's life and rekindled an interest in women's history dormant too long. You truly never know who you will run into in Amherst. :)
This wasn't in any way a stuffy or arid sort of experience. Excellent tour focused on the story of Emily's life, and on the lives of the family and others around her. The links to her poetry were explored, but not lectured about, and despite our different backgrounds and interests, there weren't any among us who emerged less than fascinated, and we all agree that this is national treasure, except we shouldn't say so because it might stop people from coming. Suggestion....take the full 90 minute tour
This old house is full of history for those who love American Romantic poetry and the story of Emily D. It is situated on a hill in downtown Amherst MA, next to her brother's home which may also be explored. Very special site! Small gift shop has lots of interesting books.
I traveled 1500 miles to see the Emily Dickinson Museum, and it was worth it! Everything was just as I imagined it from reading Dickinson biographies and poetry. Although the Homestead is nicely restored, I found The Evergreens to be even more intriguing. It is not restored but "frozen in time," so what you see is very similar to the place Austin and Susan Dickinson lived. While restoration is probably in order, touring it in its current state is fascinating and a little eerie -- I'm glad it is open to the public. The staff is great -- even opened the doors 10 minutes early -- and our tour guide, Susan, was very knowledgeable. The highlight of our East Coast trip!
Finally had the opportunity to walk the halls that inspired Emily and was rewarded with a creative tour by David our guide. His presentation of what her surroundings were like during her life, as well as some of the events in the lives of her and her family, helped to make the reading of her poetry more rewarding to me as well as creating a sense of the changes in Amherst as it developed. An afternoon well spent.
Excellent tour with very knowledgable and committed guide, especially for fans of the poet. Very close to town and a pleasant walk
We took the 90 minute tour and it was too short. Our guide, Barbara, was a delight. I love Emily's poetry and letters, so it was magical seeing the place where it all occurred. Walking into the Evergreens is like stepping back in time. I wish some big donor could be found to restore it. What a place! But it's falling apart. I wish the offices could be moved so that the Homestead could be restored to its original glory. For the cost of one drone this national treasure could be a shining jewel.
At first glance at the small house I had not the highest expectations, but the life of Emily Dickinson was much more interesting than I expected. Type guide really added a lot of life to the tour. Felt as if I know more about Emily Dickinson and life in that Era. As well as opened me to the poetry that was created by Emily Dickinson. Tour was a little under two hours. Cute, modest, and week worth the time.