Florence Griswold House

The Florence Griswold house was once a boarding house for artists. The late Georgian style home located in Old Lyme, Connecticut was known as the Lyme Art Colony from 1899-1920. Miss Florence Griswold graciously allowed many famous American impressionist artists to spend time in this home and on the grounds. The house was recently restored and is now the Florence Griswold Museum -The Home of Impressionism.

The comforting colors of this hall could certainly encourage some beautiful paintings!....

And here is a photo of the hall from around 1910.........

It was a major restoration ($2.5 million)........

Since several artists lived in this beautiful home for many years, there are lots of existing photos and paintings of the home that were used to replicate paint colors and furniture during the restoration.

Here are a few of the paintings of the home.........

Willard Metcalf May Night, c. 1905

Charles P. Gruppe (1860-1940) Oil on canvas board

Harry Hoffman View of the Griswold House 1906

Matilda Brown - Mrs. Florence's 1910



This one was painted by Woodrow Wilson's first wife........

Ellen Axson Wilson (1860-1914)



Will Howe Foot - A Summer's Night - 1906


And, of course, this historic home has plenty of postcards and photographs........

The dining room, or parlor, contains over 40 painted panels by various artists who lived at the Lyme Art Colony......

William Henry Howe (1846-1929)


Here is a photograph of Miss Florence sitting in the dining room......

The Lieutenant River flows along the rear of the Griswold property.

Look at this photo of a plein air artist along the river in 1904.......

What a wonderful museum to visit!
Walking through a well-preserved historic home is a museum in itself - plus the opportunity to view magnificent artwork.
I have a strong desire to visit Old Lyme in the near future.

Beautiful, old, historic homes are certainly an inspiration. Please visit The Inspired Room for more inspiration!