The New Canaan
Museum & Historical Society
is a cultural institution that focuses on preservation, modernism, education and community. Through exhibits, programs, library services and events, we celebrate history and explore its role in shaping the future.
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Upcoming Lecture
Wednesday, February 9, 7:00pm
The lecture will examine the career of Abastenia St. Leger Eberle, sculptor of Waveny’s Lotus Fountain, in the context of other early 20th-century American women sculptors.
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Members enjoy unlimited access to exhibitions, house museums, and the research library, as well as free admission to most programs and events.

We encourage you to join and support our mission.
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Women of Waveny
Artists, Patrons, and the Lapham Legacy

On view November 12, 2021 - March 31, 2022
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Experience Modern New Canaan

New Canaan is widely known for its mid-century modern architecture. These houses, designed in the decades after World War II by architects including Marcel Breuer, Elliot Noyes, and Philip Johnson, shaped the landscape of this Town. The Modern New Canaan initiative at the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society brings together programs, events, and tours that celebrate, appreciate, and preserve this important legacy.

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VISIT

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society owns or operates eight historic buildings, including: The 1764 Hanford-Silliman House, the 1960 Gores Pavilion, and the 1878 Rogers Studio. View a map of our Buildings and learn more about these important museum properties.
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EXPLORE

The Town of New Canaan is famous for mid-century modern architecture and a significant number of antique and historical homes over 100 years old. Our extensive research library and records collection is a comprehensive and well organized resource. Learn more about our historic houses and library.
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ENGAGE

For the young or the young at heart, we are open to all and eager to share the incredible resources. Whether you want to visit, become a member, volunteer or simply experience the New Canaan Museum & Historical Society, we welcome you to get involved.
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News & Events

News & Events

Exhibitions & Events

Women of Waveny:

Artists, Patrons, and the Lapham Legacy

On View Now

This exhibition explores and celebrates women’s work in the creation of New Canaan’s Waveny House and Park and beyond.

The show highlights two renowned, innovative artists and three enlightened patrons whose collective and complementary efforts–spanning nearly 150 years–still resonate today.

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Abastenia St. Leger Eberle in Context:

American Women Sculptors 1900-1940

Lecture: Wednesday, February 9, 7:00pm

The lecture will examine the career of Abastenia St. Leger Eberle, sculptor of Waveny’s Lotus Fountain, in the context of other early 20th-century American women sculptors, as well as the popularity of small bronze sculpture for home and garden.

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What a Woman Can Do with a Camera:

Frances Benjamin Johnston and Her Contemporaries

Lecture: Thursday, March 3, 7:00pm

This lecture will be given by Dr. Kara Charles Felt, Curator and Art Historian.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FRANCES BENJAMIN JOHNSTON >>

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Plan Your Visit

Admission

Admission is free to members.

The cost for visitors:

  • $5 for exhibitions
  • $10 for Library usage
  • $25 for a full campus tour

(Please call or email to schedule.)

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Getting Here

The New Canaan Museum & Historical Society is located at 13 Oenoke Ridge in New Canaan. It is walking distance from the New Canaan Train Station, which is serviced by Metro-North.

Accessibility

The Town House is wheelchair accessible with an elevator that connects all three floors. Please contact the office if you are interested in visiting the historic houses and need accommodations.

Museum Services

Learn about research assistance, site rental and room usage information and the historic house Plaque Program.