Craftsman Farms

Box 5
2352 Route 10 West
Morris Plains, NJ 07950
(973) 540-1165
http://www.stickleymuseum.org/

This unique museum was the home of turn-of-the-century designer, Gustav Stickley. The foremost spokesman for the Arts & Crafts Movement of the early 1900's, Stickley combined the roles of furniture designer and manufacturer, architect, publisher, philosopher, and social critic.

He acquired the Craftsman Farms property -- 650 acres at the time -- in 1908, and constructed a T-shaped log house. Intending it as a gathering place for workers, students and guests, Stickley designed the main house with a kitchen capable of serving 100 people and fifty-foot living and dining rooms. Here he envisioned establishing a farm school for boys.

He also built two cottages and originally was to build a residence for his family. Unfortunately, the school never panned out and he and his family lived in the Main House upstairs. Stickley's daughters' families occupied the cottages.

By 1915 the taste of the American people had changed, favoring the revivalism of early American styles over the clean, strong lines of Craftsman furniture. Gustav Stickley went bankrupt, but only after he made a lasting impression on American decorative arts.

Threatened with development after 1989, the house was saved by the Township of Parsippany-Troy Hills, with the encouragement of community groups. Today only the Main House is untenanted, and it is being developed as a Museum, to be as it was in Stickley's time.

This is a relatively young museum and represents a great effort to preserve an important piece of history. Already tours are available for individuals and groups -- an education in design, courage, and change for School Groups.

Families can also enjoy special Demonstrations and Workshops most Sundays, as well as changing exhibits throughout the season.

Hours: April through mid-November, Wednesday - Friday 12 - 3pm (last tour starts at 1:45), Weekends 11 - 4pm (last tour starts at 3:15). Open for groups other times by appointment.

Admission: Call to confirm fees before visiting. Adults $4.00, Seniors & Students $3.00, Children under 12 FREE. Groups same.

Group Reservations: At least 2 weeks in advance.

Lunch: Picnicking welcome (bring a blanket).

Handicapped: Limited.

Directions: I-80 West to I-287 South, exit 39. Rt. 10 west 3 miles past Rt. 53. Turn right into Powder Mill Estates entrance. Turn into first driveway on right.

Time: 1 hour southwest of the George Washington Bridge.

Nearby: Raptor Trust , Great Swamp National Wildlife Refuge , Environmental Education Center , Fosterfields Living Historical Farm .