While the Hill House Museum boasts no shortage of china, one standout piece in our collection is this elegant sterling silver tea set once owned by Ann Lucretia Collins Nash—fondly remembered as Nancy Collins in her youth. As the younger sister of Dr. William Collins and the great-aunt of the prominent Hill siblings, Nancy played an interesting role in local history. At just 15 years old, she was selected to present a wreath and formally welcome General Lafayette at the City Arch during his memorable visit to Portsmouth on October 25, 1824. This silver set stands as a cherished memento of her distinguished family legacy and the historic occasion.
Lafayette Garden Find
In 2012, during an archaeological dig in the Hill House Gardens, a wealth of artifacts was unearthed. Among them was a water pitcher commemorating Lafayette’s 1824-25 visit to the United States, depicting “Lafayette Visiting Franklin’s Tomb.” Most of the pieces were recovered, and the pitcher was carefully reconstructed. This find suggests the commemorative china pattern, produced between 1825-1830, was once part of the Hill House collection before 1850. Recently, the museum had the opportunity to acquire a commemorative 1820s coffee and tea set featuring the same pattern. Stop by in October to see this beautiful set in person.
Welcome Lafayette!
Throughout October, the Hill House Museum will explore the captivating history of General Lafayette’s visit to Portsmouth in 1824, and the lasting legacy of the Hill family through a series of lectures and events. We have a full calendar of events planned for October at the Hill House Museum.
Starting this month, we will be sharing weekly posts featuring facts and history about Lafayette’s 1824 visit to Portsmouth as well as the Hill family’s involvement. Recently uncovered research has revealed new links between the Hill family's ancestors and Lafayette’s historic visit, promising an enriching experience for all who visit the museum in October. Stay tuned for more Lafayette history throughout September…. Welcome Lafayette!
Check out this video
Check this video out and discover all the great things happening at the Hill House in October. Thanks Julie Dunn for doing a great job promoting the Hill House Museum.
Click the link below:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uskQ3uJ3KI0
Meet Lafayette at the October 26 Tea
This article was in the New York Times about Lafayette. Mark Schneider, who portrays Lafayette, will be at the Hill House Lafayette Tea on October 26. Tickets are going fast, call 757-714-3226 or send us a message for more information.
Be part of this historic event.
Click on the link below:
Seabreeze Farm
Come explore the Seabreeze Farm photo exhibit and discover why this setting on the Lynnhaven Bay, held such a special place in the Hill family's hearts. Stop by the Hill House Museum during the month of August for a tour on Wednesdays and Saturdays and check out this exhibit ending at the end of this month. Through these captivating images, experience the magic and allure of Seabreeze Farm for yourself.
Happy 4th of July
As we celebrate the birth of our nation, we invite you to join us in honoring the rich history and enduring spirit of America. The Hill House stands as a testament to the timeless values of freedom, resilience, and community that have shaped our country.
Wishing you a joyful and patriotic Fourth of July!
Craney Island Event at the Hill House Museum
Celebrate the District- Saturday, May 11th
Doors, Porches, and Gardens tour is today 5/4/24
Today is the Doors, Porches, and Gardens tour. When you visit the Hill House Museum, we will have a limited number of free Japanese Maple saplings generously donated by Bartlett Tree Experts for you to plant at home as a tribute to this incredible tour. Speaking of trees, the Magnolia tree, showcased in one of the attached pictures, graces the gardens of the Hill House Museum. Make sure to drop by this Saturday and admire this magnificent tree that has been a part of Olde Towne's skyline for over a century. Also, learn when and why this Magnolia tree was planted.
Tickets can be purchased here:
