Summary |
This study traces the evolution of the American historic house museum using the restorations of the John Wright Stanly and Robert Hay Houses, two historic homes operated by Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens. The first house museums were dedicated to wealthy men and restored to be pleasing to the eye rather than historically accurate. These houses, rather than tell a story, offered a "glimpse into the past" however inaccurate it may have been. The focus has gradually shifted away from this old model to a more historically accurate and engaging portrayal of the lives lived in these homes. Many house museums have undergone this change, but what makes The John Wright Stanly House and the Robert Hay House unique is that Tryon Palace has chosen to interpret them in two very different and separate ways. In addition, these two houses offer a visual demonstration of Tryon Palace's evolution. The Stanly House, built in the 1780s, has undergone restoration several times. For many years it exemplified the preservation philosophy of the 1960s--a beautiful old house filled with beautiful antiques, arranged with little regard to the structure's original configuration or the lifestyles of its residents. In recent years, the staff has made a considerable effort to undo the damage, but much work remains to be done. The Hay House, a middle-class artisan's residences built in 1805, became part of the Tryon Palace complex in 1994. The institution completed a thorough study of the building, and restored it in accordance with the latest theories and practices of the restoration professions. The house has no lighting, heating or cooling; it is furnished with reproductions and staffed by first person, costumed interpreters. The thesis is based on archival materials at Tryon Palace, interviews with staff members, and personal observations, as well as the published literature on the house museum field. |