The Ellwood Eclectic

During the Ellwood House’s period of significance (1879-1912) the mansion underwent constant change. The Ellwood family drew from various design sources to keep up with current trends. Major and modest building projects changes the home’s function, layout, and decorative style in every decade until 1912. The building ultimately displayed a wide assortment of architectural designs, which museum staff call “The Ellwood Eclectic”.

The interior especially fell victim to the whimsy of Harriet Ellwood’s growing collection of furnishings, books, and collectibles as well as the stylistic shifts embraced by later generations. This exhibition explores how these evolving tastes and priorities shaped the mansion’s appearance over time. Through photographs, architectural drawings, and material samples, visitors will discover the eclectic blend of styles that came to define the Ellwood family home.

The exhibit is located on the second floor of the Patience Ellwood Towle Visitor Center in the Nelson Memorial Gallery.