1 to 2 hours (approx.)
Daily Tour
15 people
English
Take a step back in time on this docent-led tour of the Hearthstone Historic House Museum in Appleton. It’s the first house in the world that was lit by a Thomas Edison central hydroelectric power station; see the original fixtures inside the house for yourself. As you tour the rooms and educational exhibits, your docent shares fascinating stories about Appleton history.
Appleton, Wisconsin was one of the first three cities in the world to be lit by an Edison central power station, the other two being New York and London. This was all due to Henry J. Rogers, who decided to invest in Edison’s power station in order to light two paper mills and his home.
Since it became a museum in 1987, Hearthstone’s focus is to preserve the house and its artifacts to re-create a historical experience based on its Thomas A. Edison heritage for the cultural enjoyment and educational benefit of the public through its many exhibits and programs.
Guided tours through Hearthstone are offered as well as a chance to explore the various educational exhibits. All tours are guided by trained docents who discuss the history of the house, its unique place in history, its architecture, and the families who have lived there for over 100 years.
The exhibits you’ll see are dedicated to Edison, his inventive legacy, electricity, and the history of hydroelectricity at the Hearthstone.
• Admission Ticket Included