We celebrated local artists by hosting the second annual Darien Alumni Art Show! < Back Darien Alumni Art Show 2022 We celebrated local artists by hosting the second annual Darien Alumni Art Show! Previous Next

Ten kids learned about the birds on the Mather Homestead property - what are they? what do they eat? what are their nests made of? And then they made and decorated birdhouses! < Back Build a Birdhouse - May 21, 2023 Ten kids learned about the birds on the Mather Homestead property - what are they? what do they eat? what are their nests made of? And then they made and decorated birdhouses! Previous Next

Southwestern Connecticut, probably Milford area, 1750-1800 Maple, ash stretchers, rush seat; 39" h. x 18 ½" w. x 18" d., seat 13" < Back Molded Slat Side Chair First Floor - Keeping Room Furniture and Hard Furnishings Southwestern Connecticut, probably Milford area, 1750-1800 Maple, ash stretchers, rush seat; 39" h. x 18 ½" w. x 18" d., seat 13" Turned side chair has four vertical molded slats tenoned into a crest that curves downward to the stay rail. Rear posts, having pronounced striped or tiger grain, are columnar turnings above balusters with urn finials; turned front legs with ball feet. Condition overall is good. Previous Next

Including: Courting Mirror with fitted box [n.n.]; 17 ½" h. x 12 ¼" w. Walnut and European pine, mirrored and painted glass; 1775-1825. Looking Glass [n.n.]; 28" h. x 14 ⅝" w. Walnut and European pine, and mirrored glass; 1760-1800. < Back Two Northern European Looking Glasses First Floor - Entrance Hall Furniture and Hard Furnishings Including: Courting Mirror with fitted box [n.n.]; 17 ½" h. x 12 ¼" w. Walnut and European pine, mirrored and painted glass; 1775-1825. Looking Glass [n.n.]; 28" h. x 14 ⅝" w. Walnut and European pine, and mirrored glass; 1760-1800. Courting Mirror: With a deeply molded walnut frame, outset corners and central pediment with églomisé floral spray panel against a white ground. Looking Glass: Featuring a walnut-veneered scalloped crest and base; glass bordered by ogee-molded crossbanding. The crest has a slot for a finial or cartouche, now missing. Previous Next

< Back Tea Party! Sat., May 7, 3 pm, garden Tea in the Garden for parents and children featuring illustrator Heather Ross. Tea + tea cakes in the garden. Plus Heather will read "How to Behave at a Tea Party," illustrated by Heather and written by Madelyn Rosenberg. Previous Next

Oil on canvas; 26” h. x 21” w. (sight size). < Back Frank C. Bensing (American, 1893-1983), Portrait of Stephen Tyng Mather First Floor - Keeping Room Fine Art Oil on canvas; 26” h. x 21” w. (sight size). Stephen Tyng Mather (1867-1930), Industrialist, Conservationist A founder and the first Director of the National Park Service. Half length portrait of a mature gentleman in suit and tie, against a dark ground. Signed in red UL: Frank C. Bensing. Framed in a contemporary gilded frame. Condition is good. Previous Next

A CHRISTMAS STORY This story, published in 1884 and discovered on the bookshelves of the Mather Homestead, was written by Massachusetts author Mrs. Sophia P. Snow, and published in this book of Christmas stories by Henry Floy, Stephen Tyng Mather's brother-in-law. It tells the delightful story of two young children on Christmas Eve who had lost their mother and whose father had lost Christmas in his heart. We hope that this story brings you a smile this Christmas season! Annie and Willie's Prayer by Mrs. Sophia P. Snow ‘Twas the night before Christmas: "Good-night," had been said, And Annie and Willie had crept into bed. There were tears on their pillows, and tears in their eyes, And each little bosom was heaving with sighs; For to-night their stern fathers's command had been given That they should retire precisely at seven-- Instead of at eight-- for they trouble him more With questions unheard of than ever before. He had told them he thought this delusion a sin, No such creature as "Santa Claus" ever had been; And he hoped, after this, he should never more hear How he scrambled down chimneys with presents each year. And this was the reason that two little heads So restlessly toss'd on their soft, downy beds. Eight, nine, and the clock on the step toll'd ten; Not a word had been spoken by either, till then; When Willie’s sad face from the blanket did peep, And whispered, "Dear Annie, is 'ou fast aseep?" "Why no, Brother Willie," a sweet voice replies, "I've long tried in vain, but I can't shut my eyes; For somehow it makes me so sorry because Dear papa has said there is no 'Santa Claus.' Now we know there is, and it can't be denied, For he came every year before mamma died; But, then, I've been thinking that she used to pray, And God would hear everything mamma would say, And maybe she ask'd him to send Santa Claus here With the sack full of presents he brought every year." "Well, why tan't we pay, dust as mama did den, And ask Dod to send him with pesents aden? "I've been thinking so too," -- and with out a word more Four little bare feet bounded out on the floor, And four little knees the soft carpet press'd, And two tiny hands were clasp'd close to each breast. "Now Willie, you know we must firmly believe That the presents we ask for we're sure to receive; You must wait very still till I say the 'Amen,' And by that you will know that your turn has come then." 'Dear Jesus, look down on my brother and me, And grant us the favor we're asking of thee. I want a wax dolly, a tea-set, and ring, And an ebony work-box that shuts with a spring: Bless papa, dear Jesus, and cause him to see That Santa Claus loves us as much as does he: Don't let him get fretful and angry again At dear brother Willie and Annie. Amen." "Pease, Desus, 'et Santa Taus tum down to-night, And bing us some pesents before it is 'ight; I want he sood div' me a nice 'ittle sed, Wid bight shinin 'unners, and all painted 'ed; A box full of tandy, a book, and a toy, Amen. And den, Desus, I'll be a dood boy." THEIR REST Their prayers being ended, they rais'd up their heads, And, with hearts light and cheerful, again sought their beds. They were soon lost in slumber, both peaceful and deep, And with fairies in dream-land were roaming in sleep. Eight, nine, and the little French clock had struck ten, Ere the father had thought of his children again: He seems now to hear Annie's half suppress'd sighs, And to see the big tears stand in Willie's blue eyes. "I was harsh with my darlings," he mentally said, "And should not have sent them so early to bed; But then I was troubled; my feelings found vent?; For bank-stock to-day has gone down ten per cent. But of course they've forgotten their troubles ere this, And that I denied them the thrice-ask’d-for kiss: But, just to make sure, I'll steal up to their door-- To my darlings I never spoke harshly before." So saying, he softly ascended the stairs, And arrived at the door to hear both of their prayers; His Annie's "Bless papa" drew forth the big tears, And Willie's grave promise fell sweet on his ears. "Strange-- Strange -- I'd forgotten," said he, with a sigh, "How I long'd when a child to have Christmas draw nigh." I'll atone for my harshness," he inwardly said, "By answering their prayers ere I sleep in my bed." Then he turn'd to the stairs and softly went down, Threw off velvet slippers and silk dressing-gown, Donn'd hat, coat, and boots, and was out in the street-- A millionaire facing the cold, driving sleet! Not stopp'd he until he had brought every thing, From the box full of candy to the tiny gold ring; Indeed, he kept adding so much to his store, That the various presents outnumber'd a score. Then homeward he turn'd, when his holiday load, With Aunt Mary's help, in the nursery was stow'd. Miss Dolly was seated beneath a pine tree, By the side of a table spread out for her tea; A work-box, well fill'd, in the center was laid, And on it the ring for which Annie had pray'd; A soldier in uniform stood by a sled "With bright shining runners, and all painted red." There were balls, dogs, and horses; books pleasing to see; And birds of all colors were perch'd in the tree; While Santa Claus, laughing, stood up in the top, As if getting ready more presents to drop. Now as the fond father the picture survey'd, He thought for his trouble he'd amply been paid; And he said to himself, as he brush'd off a tear, "I'm happier to-night than I've been for a year; I've enjoy'd more true pleasure than ever before; What care I if bank-stock falls ten percent. more! Hereafter I'll make it a rule, I believe, To have Santa Claus visit us each Christmas Eve." So thinking, he gently extinguish'd the light, And, tripping down stairs, retired for the night. THE MORNING As soon as the beams of the bright morning sun Put the darkness to flight, and the stars by one, Four little blue eyes out of sleep open'd wide, And at the same moment the presents espied; Then out of their beds they sprang with a bound, And the very gifts pray'd for were all of them found. They laugh'd and they cried, in their innocent glee, And shouted for papa to come quick, and see What presents old Santa Claus brought in the night, (Just the things that they wanted!) and left before light. "And now," added Annie, in voice soft and low, "You'll believe there's a Santa Claus, papa, I know;" While dear little Willie climb'd up on his knee, Determin'd no secret between them should be. And told, in soft whispers, how Annie had said That their dear blessed mamma, so long ago dead, Used to kneel down and pray, by the side of her chair, And that God up in heaven had answer'd her prayer. "Den we dot up and pay'd dust well as we took, And Dod answer'd our payers; now wasn't he dood?" "I should say that he was, if he sent you all these, And knew just what presents my children would please. (Well, well, let him think so, the dear little elf; 'Twould be cruel to tell him I did it myself.") ____ Blind father! who caus'd your stern heart to relent, And the hasty words spoken so soon to repent? 'Twas the Being who bade you steal softly up stairs, And made you his agent to answer their prayers. Sophia P. Snow

Mather hits the road to learn about other places of interest! Past field trips have included: Weir Farm, Connecticut's only National Park. Setauket, Long Island, home of the Culper Spy Ring. Tour of the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art with Elizabeth Kornhauser, the Alice Pratt Brown Curator of American Paintings and Sculpture FIELD TRIPS Mather hits the road to learn about other places of interest! Past field trips have included: - Weir Farm, Connecticut's only National Park - Setauket, Long Island, home of the Culper Spy Ring - Tour of the American Wing of the Metropolitan Museum of Art with Elizabeth Kornhauser, the Alice Pratt Brown Curator of American Paintings and Sculpture - Tour and lunch at Fraunces Tavern, New York UPCOMING EVENTS Past Field Trips Fall Harvest Festival, Presented by BMW of Darien Oct 24, 2026, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM Fun for the whole family! Join us for pony rides, hay rides, face painting, crafts, treats, live music, lots of pumpkins, and - new this year - ride-on farm equipment. This annual celebration is a beloved tradition and great way to support The Homestead! Kids under one year old free. Buy Tickets Lecture from Former National Park Service Director Chuck Sams and the Official Unveiling of the Stephen Mather Plaque Oct 29, 2026, 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM “National Park Service: Rising to the Challenge.” How do we protect America’s public lands? Drawing on his experience leading the Park Service and his Native American heritage, Sams brings a rich perspective to the challenges of the past - and those that lie ahead. Lecture begins at 6:15 PM. Buy Tickets Election Day Camp for Young Creators, K-5 Nov 03, 2026, 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM Spend the day creating art inspired by the original WPA National Parks posters. Children will go home with four gorgeous projects as well as a little knowledge about our National Parks, the WPA, and how The Mather Homestead is part of the National Parks story. For students in grades K-5. Buy Tickets Field Trip to Hamilton Grange National Memorial Nov 12, 2026, 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM As part of our celebration of the National Parks, we venture to an NPS site and historic home commemorating one our Nation's original great leaders, Alexander Hamilton. Join us for coffee and pastries at the Mather Barn before we drive to 414 West 141st street. Buy Tickets Holiday Ornament Homesteading Finishing Class Nov 15, 2026, 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM With Lauren Keena's guidance, come learn how to finish the project you have started so it is ready to gift to a friend or hang on your tree. Extra kits are available for $50 and pick-up at the barn if you missed our October 8th class. Price for November 15 includes finishing kit and refreshments. Buy Tickets Our National Parks: Past, Present, and Future Panel Discussion Nov 19, 2026, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM Join us for a discussion with Tiernan Sittenfeld, President and CEO of the National Parks Conservation Association. Discuss the past, present, and future of park conservation and discover how each of us can help support and strengthen these places for generations to come. Refreshments included. Buy Tickets Holiday Wreath Making at 5:30 PM or 7:30 PM Dec 02, 2026, 5:30 PM Gather your friends and join us for an evening of creativity and holiday cheer! We’ll provide everything you need to craft a magazine-worthy wreath—and table reservations include champagne to toast the season. No experience necessary, but we do appreciate if you bring your own clippers! Buy Tickets Watch The Mather Legacy: An American Story Multiple Dates and Times Upcoming Screenings: October 28, 10a: Darien Men's Association November 16, 6:30p: Darien Public Library January 22, 10a: New Canaan Men's Association Details Book a Tour T-Th 9a to 2p Tours are available Tuesday through Thursday, 9a to 2p or by appointment. Book your tour here or email us at info@matherhomestead.org. Please note: We are unable to offer tours the week of July 6, 2026 through July 10, 2026. Enjoy the Fourth of July Holiday! Happy 250, America! Buy Tickets Vinyasa Yoga with Mary Ann Wednesday/Saturday 9:30a Join us Wednesdays and Saturday mornings at 9:30a! Buy Tickets Vinyasa yoga with Mary Ann - Purchase a Ten-Pack Ticket Here Date and time is TBD Refresh your mind and energy with this revitalizing practice to uplift and restore your entire system. Enjoy a well-paced flow that will offer you just the right amount of challenge while encouraging strength, resistance, and flexibility while reducing tension in the hips, back and shoulders. Buy Tickets Exhibit - Bertha Mather McPherson: Visionary Preservationist By appointment This exhibit will look at Bertha Mather's legacy as preservationist of home, family and community. Opening June 2025 and open by appointment through the summer. RSVP Exhibit: Stephen Mather and the National Parks by appointment Learn about the life and legacy of Stephen Tyng Mather (1867-1930), the first Director of the National Park Service and the owner of the Homestead from 1906 to 1930. Exhibit geared towards adults PLUS "kids corner" for kids of all ages. Open hours Thurs. 6 to 7:30, Sat. 11 to 1, Sun. 1 to 3 RSVP Past Field Trips

< Back Book Club: "The Cause" by Joseph Ellis Thurs., Jan 20, 7 pm, parlor, free The Mather Homestead book club explores a variety of books, from fiction to nonfiction, from historical to covering other topics such as the environment and National Parks in honor of Stephen Tyng Mather. Discussions are led. Join us even if you haven't read the book. A culminating work on the American Founding by one of its leading historians, The Cause rethinks the American Revolution as we have known it. In one of the most “exciting and engaging” (Gordon S. Wood) histories of the American founding in decades, Pulitzer Prize–winning historian Joseph J. Ellis offers an epic account of the origins and clashing ideologies of America’s revolutionary era, recovering a war more brutal, and more disorienting, than any in our history, save perhaps the Civil War. For more than two centuries, historians have debated the history of the American Revolution, disputing its roots, its provenance, and above all, its meaning. These questions have intrigued Ellis―one of our most celebrated scholars of American history―throughout his entire career. With this much-anticipated volume, he at last brings the story of the revolution to vivid life, with “surprising relevance” (Susan Dunn) for our modern era. Completing a trilogy of books that began with Founding Brothers, The Cause returns us to the very heart of the American founding, telling the military and political story of the war for independence from the ground up, and from all sides: British and American, loyalist and patriot, white and Black. Taking us from the end of the Seven Years’ War to 1783, and drawing on a wealth of previously untapped sources, The Cause interweaves action-packed tales of North American military campaigns with parlor-room intrigues back in England, creating a thrilling narrative that brings together a cast of familiar and long-forgotten characters. Here Ellis recovers the stories of Catherine Littlefield Greene, wife of Major General Nathanael Greene, the sister among the “band of brothers”; Thayendanegea, a Mohawk chief known to the colonists as Joseph Brant, who led the Iroquois Confederation against the Patriots; and Harry Washington, the enslaved namesake of George Washington, who escaped Mount Vernon to join the British Army and fight against his former master. Countering popular histories that romanticize the “Spirit of ’76,” Ellis demonstrates that the rebels fought under the mantle of “The Cause,” a mutable, conveniently ambiguous principle that afforded an umbrella under which different, and often conflicting, convictions and goals could coexist. Neither an American nation nor a viable government existed at the end of the war. In fact, one revolutionary legacy regarded the creation of such a nation, or any robust expression of government power, as the ultimate betrayal of The Cause. This legacy alone rendered any effective response to the twin tragedies of the founding―slavery and the Native American dilemma―problematic at best. Written with the vivid and muscular prose for which Ellis is known, and with characteristically trenchant insight, The Cause marks the culmination of a lifetime of engagement with the founding era. A landmark work of narrative history, it challenges the story we have long told ourselves about our origins as a people, and as a nation. Source: Amazon Please buy local! Books available at Barrett Bookstore. Previous Next

St. Nicholas visited the Homestead for the second time. Children enjoyed a visit with Santa and lots of fun stations with games & crafts (and candy!) < Back A Visit from St. Nicholas - December 11, 2021 St. Nicholas visited the Homestead for the second time. Children enjoyed a visit with Santa and lots of fun stations with games & crafts (and candy!) Previous Next

This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. < Back Gardens This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. This is placeholder text. To change this content, double-click on the element and click Change Content. Want to view and manage all your collections? Click on the Content Manager button in the Add panel on the left. Here, you can make changes to your content, add new fields, create dynamic pages and more. You can create as many collections as you need. Your collection is already set up for you with fields and content. Add your own, or import content from a CSV file. Add fields for any type of content you want to display, such as rich text, images, videos and more. You can also collect and store information from your site visitors using input elements like custom forms and fields. Be sure to click Sync after making changes in a collection, so visitors can see your newest content on your live site. Preview your site to check that all your elements are displaying content from the right collection fields. Previous Next

Connecticut During the American Revolutionary War < Back Brown Bag Lecture featuring Past Presented - November 9, 2023 Connecticut During the American Revolutionary War Previous Next