The Stickley Museum at Craftsman Farms — Attraction in Parsippany-Troy Hills

Emerging in the U.S. primarily between 1900 and 1929, American Craftsman style was a backlash against the Industrial Revolution and Victorian architecture.

Craftsman construction spread across the country in part thanks to American furniture designer Gustav Stickley. The most identifiable feature of the home is a low-pitched roof with overhanging eaves and exposed rafters. Another characteristic trademark is a large front porch with sturdy tapered columns.

Located off the beaten path of Route 10 inside a 30-acre country estate in Morris Plains, my partner and I had the chance to tour as first-timers this 1911 house of Gustav Stickley, internationally known for his multiple roles as a philosopher, publisher, social critic and associated today with his straightforward furniture, sometimes called “mission” or “Craftsman” furniture. A reservation was made on their website.

Upon entering the Museum/Gift Shop, we were greeted by the staff. The tour of 12 people began with a short 5-minute intro video about the family in their renovated kitchen and through the house from the main floor and the second-floor bedrooms.

The centerpiece is Stickley’s massive Log House, restored to its 1910-1917 appearance, which exemplifies his philosophy of building in harmony with the environment by using natural materials.

The tour ran only 1 hour but was packed with so much information and sights of historical background regarding Gustav Stickley and really brought what we were viewing to life. The docent tour leader husband/wife duo Bob and Jan were excellent. The price didn’t dent one’s pocket, which we could recommend for woodworkers, craftsmen, antique enthusiasts, and...

Don't miss this small but important museum and historic site with a fascinating backstory. If you're lucky (like our group) the tour guide will go a bit longer than the expected 30 minutes. The house may not be very big but there is a story - lots of stories - in each room. If you think Gustav Stickley was just furniture, think again. The house is full of original pieces and the reproductions really are extraordinary, including metalwork and textiles. There also happens to be a piece on loan from the Metropolitan Museum of Art so this site is not a roadside attraction by any means. And while I would usually not put a plug in for a gift shop, the Stickley Museum gift shop is small but has an impressive selection of housewares, books and items related to Stickley and his designs. And lest you think Gustav was the only Stickley to design furniture, you're in for a great (and sometimes heartbreaking) story about a family that has influenced American home decor for more...

This was the residence of the furniture designer Gustav Stickley. It was his house, which he designed and built in 1911. There are people like me who are very interested in that. It is now a museum, albeit a highly specialized one (and very beautiful). But don't go there expecting to learn about the battle of Morristown or see an exhibit of Rembrandts and then write a disappointed review. Go there to learn about...