Speakers: Karen and Denis Dolan, Volunteers with Linden Hill
In the Music Room at the Muscatine Art Center
Thursday, October 22, 2015 from Noon to 1 p.m.
FREE ADMISSION
Built in 1898, the neighboring homes of Charles A. Weyerhaeuser and Richard "Drew" Musser are physical reminders of the "Lumber Era" in Minnesota. Linden Hill volunteers, Karen and Denis Dolan, will present on the homes which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The nine-acre estate, including both homes, was used by the Musser family until 20 years ago, and is now an event center run by the non-profit Friends of Linden Hill. The group host weddings, receptions, teas, retreats, Christmas tours, and other special occasions throughout the year. Visitors can even stay overnight in the bedrooms in the beautiful Musser mansion.
Laura Musser McColm frequently visited her brother Drew and his family at Linden Hill. Her journal describes family gatherings in Minnesota: "Wednesday, January 1, 1936 - A very pleasant day in my brother's home. Mary & "Lotsie" at home for the holidays. Sarah dear, so kind to me and Drew such a wonderful brother make me feel very much at home and I do love to be with them.... Sarah & Drew had twenty people in to welcome the New Year. We had a jolly time."
The Musser family began calling the estate "Linden Hill" in the 1920s, because of the many linden, or basswood, trees on the property. One of the Linden Hill homes - the white Musser Mansion - had been virtually closed off after Drew Musser's death in 1958. When it was reopened decades later, his toothbrush and razor were still in place in the bathroom as if still waiting for Mr. Musser's return. Most of the furniture and furnishings remain intact and undamaged, making it a living example of life for the upper class in the area during the early 20th century.
The program on October 22nd is free and open to the public. Reservations are not required. Please contact Melanie Alexander, Director, with any questions or concerns at 563-263-8282 or by email at malexander@muscatineiowa.gov.
The Muscatine Art Center is located at 1314 Mulberry Avenue in Muscatine, Iowa. Hours are Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Thursday evenings until 7:00 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. Admission is free. Donations are appreciated. Visit www.muscatineartcenter.org for more information about programs and events and to download a class brochure.
