Daniel Chester French at work in his studio in Stockbridge MA

Art and history lovers visiting the Berkshires will want to make time to stop by Chesterwood, the summer home, studio, and gardens of acclaimed sculptor, Daniel Chester French.

Even those who have never heard of Daniel Chester French (1850-1931) are undoubtedly aware of at least some of the famed sculptor’s works. Who hasn’t, for example, seen the seated Lincoln of the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC? How about the Minute Man statue in Concord, MA or Alma Mater at Columbia University?

French was one of America’s foremost public sculptors, with monuments in prominent display all around the country. Though based in New York City, French and his family summered in the Berkshires at their summer home in Stockbridge. French designed the estate with help from architect Henry Bacon, with whom he also created the Lincoln Memorial.

Margaret French Cresson (1889–1973), French’s daughter, formed the Daniel Chester French Foundation after the sculptor’s death, to help manage the estate. it is a National Trust Historic Site preserving the country home and studio of Daniel Chester French (1850-1931).

Today, the lush, 122 acre estate is a historic house museum and sculpture garden, hosting a variety of events and programs throughout the year.

Visiting Chesterwood

the restored studio at Chesterwood

Chesterwood is located at 4 Williamsville Road, in Stockbridge, MA. Just ten minutes from The Inn at Stockbridge, our Berkshires bed and breakfast.

Visitors to the estate can tour the famous sculptor’s house, studio, and grounds. You’ll learn about his life, family, friends, and legacy. Best of all, you’ll also see hundreds of his study models and finished works.

Chesterwood hosts outdoor contemporary sculpture exhibitions throughout the year, displaying works from a variety of artists. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and fun to explore, all on their own. Follow a trail designed by French, himself, for panoramic views of Monument Mountain, a lovely country garden, and more.

Much of Chesterwood was closed throughout 2020 due to the pandemic. The entire estate is set to fully reopen Saturday, May 15, 2021. Learn more on the Cheserwood website. You can also follow the museum on Facebook.