McConnell Mansion — Attraction in Moscow

I had lukewarm expectations when I entered the house. I expected to wander through the rooms on my own, deploying my mediocre observational powers. But very soon after I stepped inside, a tour guide appeared. She, and a novice docent, took me from room to room and regaled me with fascinating background stories. She also pointed out many, many details I would have overlooked. The tour took maybe a half-hour, and every minute of it was a pleasure. It gave me a visceral feeling for what life was like for affluent families in Moscow a century ago. My understanding is that tour guides are available to anyone dropping in during the open hours. This is an opportunity that no tourist--or non-tourist--in the area...

On leafy Adams Street, a couple of blocks east of Main Street, stands the palatial W. J. McConnell House.

In a Stick/Eastlake style, this elegant residence was built in 1886 for William J. McConnell (1839-1925), who served as Governor of Idaho from 1893 to 1897, after previously representing the young state as one of its first United States Senators.

The mansion is the headquarters of the Latah County Historical Society, and you can take a look around a series of themed period rooms, featuring authentic furnishings and appliances.

The society also puts on fascinating exhibits and learning events, often in partnership with the University of Idaho and always well...

The stairs hurt my knees to walk on, so if you have weak knees keep that in mind. However, it is entirely out of their control. It's just not possible to make it more accessible to those with physical disabilities unfortunately. It's a lovely museum and one that has been near and dear to my heart since I was a toddler. My favourite field trips were to here. My favourite thing is the gramophone, and I always get so excited on the rare occasion they use it and play music. It's amazing. I think the gift shop leaves a lot to be desired, especially when it comes to kids, but the fact there even is one is pretty cool. So many cool events get held here, and it's...