Merwin House

At the end of the 19th century, railroads opened the Berkshires, which soon became a summer destination for wealthy New Yorkers. This handsome brick structure, which dates from the late Federal period, was purchased by William and Elizabeth Doane as a summer home in 1875.

Around 1900, the Doanes doubled its size by adding a shingle-style ell and remodeled the interior of the main house. They decorated the house in an eclectic manner with European and American furnishings, much of which they collected during their extensive travels. The house was preserved by the Doanes' daughter, Vipont Merwin, who added her own memorabilia to the decorative scheme.

Situated in the heart of the charming resort town of Stockbridge, the house reflects a leisurely summer existence, with afternoons spent relaxing on the capacious back porch or strolling through the gardens and down the lawn to the Housatonic River. Annual programs at Merwin House include outdoor theatrical performances.

Photo 71, Oct 2006