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Bringing History to Life!
The Mather Homestead, Darien's only Registered National Historic Landmark, is a historic home and property on the four corners of Brookside and Stephen Mather Roads. The home was built in 1778 by Deacon Joseph Mather, raided by Tories during the Revolutionary War, and later the home of Stephen Tyng Mather, an avid conservationist and the first Director of the National Park Service. The house was passed through six generations of Mathers until 2017, when the home was generously donated by Mather descendants to a newly created foundation to be operated as a museum dedicated to historical education.
The Mather Homestead is rich in history and open for public education and enjoyment.
We are open for tours Tuesday through Thursday 11 am to 3 pm, Fridays and Saturdays 1 to 3 pm. Schedule.
We are also open by appointment - email us to schedule your tour outside of our normal hours.
Tours are $10/adult, $5 for kids under 18 and FREE for our members (become a member) and members of NARM (North American Reciprocal Museum Association).
Please click here for upcoming events.
The Mather Homestead Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, oversees the Mather Homestead.
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The Mather Homestead is Darien's only Registered National Historic Landmark
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Stephen Tyng Mather (1867-1930)
First Director of the National Park Service
Owner of the Homestead 1906-1930
UPCOMING EVENTS
- Mon, Jun 17The Mather HomesteadJun 17, 2024, 7:00 PM – Aug 01, 2024, 11:00 PMJun 17, 2024, 7:00 PM – Aug 01, 2024, 11:00 PMThe Pink Rhubarb returns to the Mather Homestead with summer workshops featuring cooking, gardening and crafts. Kids will learn essential skills in the kitchen, develop a green thumb in the garden, and explore the beautiful Mather Homestead property. Mixed ages 4 to 13. Hi
- Wed, Jul 17Mather Homestead patioJul 17, 2024, 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
- Tue, Jul 23Start in the MH Barn!Jul 23, 2024, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PMJul 23, 2024, 6:30 PM – 8:00 PMThe national parks are simply spectacular and you can capture the beauty even with your iPhone! Whether you're planning a trip to a stunning park or simply want to capture the beauty of Darien’s local parks and beaches, this hands-on workshop will elevate your landscape photography.
- Mon, Aug 05The Mather HomesteadAug 05, 2024, 9:00 AM – Aug 09, 2024, 12:00 PMAug 05, 2024, 9:00 AM – Aug 09, 2024, 12:00 PMWriting workshop inspired by 18th & 19th century poets, storytellers, letter writers, journalists, nature writers, and travel writers. Samantha will lead kids through the process of writing -- selecting topics, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing their original work! Reco ages 8 to 13.
- Sat, Oct 26The Mather HomesteadOct 26, 2024, 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
- by appointmentThe Elizabeth W. Chilton Education Cntrby appointmentby appointmentLearn about the life and legacy of Stephen Tyng Mather (1867-1930), the first Director of the National Park Service and the owner of the Homestead from 1906 to 1930. Exhibit geared towards adults PLUS "kids corner" for kids of all ages. Open hours Thurs. 6 to 7:30, Sat. 11 to 1, Sun. 1 to 3
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