1782 High Style Georgian House
1 / 18

Sargent House Museum

4.7
·17 reviews·Gloucester, United States

Explore the historic Georgian home of Judith Sargent Murray, an early American writer, and discover art by the Sargent family.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

Art exhibits often coincide with local events.

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
1782 High Style Georgian House

Sargent House Museum

Best Time

Weekends

Art exhibits often coincide with local events.

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the historic Georgian home of Judith Sargent Murray, an early American writer, and discover art by the Sargent family.

4.7
(17 reviews)

"A must-see for anyone interested in Gloucester history or inspirational women."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Exhibit Schedule

See what special art exhibits are on display; they often honor local history or artists. :camerawithflash:

Gallery Entrance Location

The gallery entrance is up the hill, not directly on Main Street. :world_map:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Judith Sargent Murray's Legacy

Judith Sargent Murray's Legacy

Main House

Explore the home of Judith Sargent Murray, an influential early American writer and advocate for women's rights.

Emily Sargent Watercolors

Emily Sargent Watercolors

Gallery Space

Admire a surprising collection of watercolors by Emily Sargent, sister of the renowned artist John Singer Sargent.

Historic Georgian Architecture

Historic Georgian Architecture

Exterior and Interior

Step back in time in this beautifully preserved circa-1782 Federalist-era home.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Discover Gloucester's Literary & Artistic Heritage

Explore the Sargent House Museum, a historic Georgian home in Gloucester, MA. Learn about early American writer Judith Sargent Murray and admire art by the Sargent family. Perfect for history buffs and art lovers seeking a glimpse into the past.

Art Exhibits & Local History

Beyond its permanent collection, the Sargent House Museum hosts rotating art exhibits, often featuring local artists and themes relevant to Gloucester's rich history. Check their schedule for current displays.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
Art exhibits often coincide with local events.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds for a peaceful visit.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Visiting Hammond Castle in Gloucester is always a special treat #hammondcastle #hammondcastlemuseum #visitma #prettylittletrips #princesscore
@olena_lala
34.7K likes • 264K views

Check Exhibit Schedule

See what special art exhibits are on display; they often honor local history or artists. :camerawithflash:

Gallery Entrance Location

The gallery entrance is up the hill, not directly on Main Street. :world_map:

This was at an amazing gig we got to do at @Hammond_Castle_Museum in Gloucester, MA. It was pretty damg magical! But bittersweet, so much work and it’s over in a flash. Yes, I’m for hire! #labyrinth #jareth
@serious_moonlight
29K likes • 172K views
Businesswomen's Summer Mixer at the a Sargent House Museum
capeannchamber
21 likes • 415 views

Musty Smell Noted

Some visitors mention a musty smell inside the historic house. :facewiththermometer:

Support Local Art

The museum frequently hosts local artists' exhibitions. :art:

A few examples of art work at last Saturday’s show at the Sargent House Museum. #watercolors #watercolorpainting #watercolorpaintings #watercolorlandscape #seascape #rockportma #newenglandwatercolors #newenglandwatercolorpaintings
davis.w.glenn_watercolorist
6 likes • 231 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Exhibit Schedule

See what special art exhibits are on display; they often honor local history or artists. :camerawithflash:

Gallery Entrance Location

The gallery entrance is up the hill, not directly on Main Street. :world_map:

Musty Smell Noted

Some visitors mention a musty smell inside the historic house. :facewiththermometer:

Support Local Art

The museum frequently hosts local artists' exhibitions. :art:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(17 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Sargent House Museum for its historical significance, particularly its connection to early American writer Judith Sargent Murray and the surprising collection of Emily Sargent's watercolors. The Federalist-era architecture is also a highlight. Some guests note a musty smell within the house and advise confirming the gallery entrance location.

"We weren't there long. Went to see the Emily Sargent paintings specifically. They were lovely. Looks like an interesting place, but smells very musty inside."

annette jacobs

"1782 Federalist Era home, Judith Sargent Murray (an early American writer) and her husband John Murray (founder of the first Universalist Church in the USA) lived here. They were acquainted with the Washington's and the Adams, and the home is filled with beautiful historic artifacts. Includes a collection of original John Singer Sargent pieces. Worth visiting!"

Shannon Molton

"Wonderful exhibit by Vanessa Michalak MFA, BSN, RN- honoring the nurses of COVID! Be mindful, the gallery entrance is up the hill, not Main Street!!!"

Clarissa

What People Like

Judith Sargent Murray's legacy
Emily Sargent watercolors
Historic Georgian architecture

What People Dislike

Musty smell noted

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sargent House Museum is located in Gloucester, MA. While specific public transport details can vary, it's often accessible by car. Parking information should be checked with the museum directly. Some visitors mention it's near Main Street, but the gallery entrance is up a hill. Reddit

Information on parking availability and any associated costs for the Sargent House Museum should be confirmed directly with the museum or by checking local Gloucester parking regulations. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Opening hours for the Sargent House Museum can vary seasonally and for special events. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information before your visit. TikTok

Admission fees for the Sargent House Museum typically apply, with potential variations for guided tours or special exhibits. Check their official website for current pricing details. Reddit

Many historic house museums offer online ticket purchasing for convenience. It's recommended to visit the Sargent House Museum's official website to see if advance booking is available. Instagram

Yes, the Sargent House Museum often provides guided tours that offer deeper insights into the history of the house and its notable residents, like Judith Sargent Murray. Reddit

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

The Sargent House Museum features a collection of art, furniture, and local artifacts, with a focus on the life of Judith Sargent Murray and art by the Sargent family, including Emily Sargent's watercolors. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The museum is a Federalist-era home dating back to 1782, offering a deep dive into Gloucester's history and the lives of influential figures like Judith Sargent Murray. Reddit

Yes, the Sargent House Museum frequently hosts art exhibitions, often showcasing local artists or themed collections, such as those honoring nurses or specific artistic styles. InstagramReddit

The Sargent House Museum is a well-preserved example of Georgian architecture, built in the Federalist era around 1782. Reddit

Many visitors recommend taking a guided tour to fully appreciate the historical context and stories behind the artifacts. Checking for current art exhibits is also a great idea. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography policies can vary in historic house museums. It's advisable to check with the museum staff upon arrival regarding rules for interior photography, especially for personal use. TikTok

The exterior of the historic Georgian house offers picturesque views. Inside, focus on capturing the details of the art collections and historic furnishings, respecting any no-photography zones. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While the Sargent House Museum offers a glimpse into history, its primary appeal might be for older children or teens interested in literature, art, or early American history. The focus on Judith Sargent Murray's writings and the art collection can be educational. However, the historic nature of the house, including potential musty odors, might not be ideal for very young children. It's best suited for families looking for a quiet, educational outing rather than high-energy entertainment. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts

For art lovers, the Sargent House Museum is a must-visit, especially for its collection of Emily Sargent's watercolors. These pieces offer a unique perspective on the artistic talents within the renowned Sargent family. The museum also frequently hosts rotating art exhibitions, often featuring local artists, which can provide a fresh and engaging experience with contemporary works. Instagram+1

📚 History Buffs

History enthusiasts will be captivated by the circa-1782 Georgian house and its connection to Judith Sargent Murray, a pivotal figure in early American literature and women's rights advocacy. The museum provides a rich narrative of Gloucester's past and the influential individuals who resided there, including connections to figures like John Murray and even the Washingtons and Adamses. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Judith Sargent Murray

The Sargent House Museum is deeply connected to Judith Sargent Murray, a pioneering American writer and an early advocate for women's rights. Born in Gloucester in 1751, she was a prolific essayist, poet, and playwright whose work championed the intellectual equality of women. Her writings, often published under the pseudonym 'The Gleaner,' challenged societal norms and laid groundwork for future feminist movements. Visiting the museum offers a unique opportunity to walk through the home where she lived and developed her influential ideas. Reddit

Her husband, John Murray, was also a significant figure as the founder of the first Universalist Church in the United States. The couple was known to have social connections with prominent figures of the era, including the Washingtons and the Adamses. The house itself, a circa-1782 Georgian structure, reflects the period and the intellectual atmosphere in which they lived. Reddit

Exploring the museum provides a tangible link to this important historical period and the remarkable individuals who shaped early American thought and discourse. It's a chance to understand the context of their lives and the enduring impact of their contributions. Reddit

Artistic Connections: The Sargent Family

Beyond its historical significance, the Sargent House Museum boasts a notable art collection, particularly featuring works by the talented Sargent family. While John Singer Sargent is the most famous, his sister, Emily Sargent, was also a gifted artist. The museum houses a surprising and delightful collection of Emily's watercolors, offering a more intimate glimpse into her artistic vision. Instagram

These watercolors often depict landscapes and scenes that capture the beauty of the New England coast and beyond. They provide a contrast to the more formal portraits John Singer Sargent is known for, showcasing a different facet of the family's artistic legacy. Visitors often express pleasant surprise at discovering this collection, finding it a significant draw to the museum. Instagram

In addition to the Sargent family's art, the museum also serves as a venue for contemporary art exhibitions. These rotating displays often highlight local artists and can touch upon themes relevant to Gloucester's history and community, adding a dynamic layer to the museum's offerings. InstagramReddit

You may also like