Beauport, Sleeper-McCann House — Attraction in Gloucester

My visit to Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House in Gloucester, MA, was an unforgettable experience that left me in awe of its beauty and historical significance. This incredible seaside mansion, designed by the visionary interior designer Henry Davis Sleeper, is a true masterpiece that offers a fascinating glimpse into the eclectic and creative spirit of its creator.

From the moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the unique and imaginative design of each room. Beauport is not just a house; it’s a work of art, with every space telling its own story through a blend of color, texture, and style. Sleeper’s eye for detail is evident in every corner, from the vibrant stained glass windows to the carefully curated antiques and decor. Each room has its own personality, making the entire house a feast for the eyes and a treasure trove of inspiration.

The guided tour was outstanding. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and brought the history of Beauport and Henry Davis Sleeper to life with captivating stories and insights. She shared fascinating details about Sleeper’s life, his friendships with prominent artists and writers, and his passion for collecting and design. The tour was both informative and engaging, and I appreciated how it allowed us to explore Sleeper’s world in such a personal and intimate way.

The location of Beauport is another highlight. Set on a hill overlooking Gloucester Harbor, the views from the house and its terraces are simply breathtaking. The gardens surrounding the house are beautifully maintained, providing a serene and picturesque setting that perfectly complements the interior’s rich and varied design.

Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House, is a must-visit for anyone interested in design, history, or simply looking for a unique and inspiring experience. It’s a place where creativity and history come together in the most magical way, and I left feeling truly inspired by Sleeper’s visionary work. If you’re in the Gloucester area, don’t miss the chance to explore this extraordinary home—you won’t be...

My girlfriend and I toured Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House yesterday, August 8th.

The house was beautiful and we enjoyed the wonderful interior designs, but unfortunately our tour was tainted by our rude, disrespectful, and unprofessional tour guide.

Shortly upon beginning the tour, our guide, Alberta Hill, made an extremely rude and uncalled-for comment, slut-shaming and embarrassing my girlfriend in front of the entire tour group for her clothing. Her outfit was not that revealing- it was a hot day and she had on shorts and a tank top- but even if it were, it would not grant a tour guide the right to treat a guest in this manner. It’s sad that what was otherwise such a fun experience was impacted by an insensitive guide who made my girlfriend feel uncomfortable and self-conscious.

It’s disappointing that Historic New England would employ someone with such an old-fashioned mentality, someone who would go out of her way to police another woman’s body and enforce traditional gender norms. This is especially troubling to see at the Beauport Sleeper-McCann house, a space that was once a sanctuary for the queer Henry Davis Sleeper and a pinnacle of early individual expression. I would expect those employed by the Beauport house to reject moral conservatism and embrace personal freedoms and expression, but sadly...

The crown jewel of the historic homes of New England, this house offers a different tableau from a storybook in every room. Prepare to be enchanted and transported to something out of the Lord of the Rings in a most charming New England Hamlet northeast of Beantown. Even if you can't get a tour -- Sleeper-McCann sells out faster than every other property -- you may tour the majestic grounds and the resplendent gardens free of charge. I strongly recommend the nooks and crannies tour, even though it is more expensive and not subject to the EBT discount that I so eagerly use. This house is so marvelous that three hours will fly by. I biked from the commuter rail but it's hard to get there...