Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library is a prominent cultural institution in Delaware. It was established by Henry Francis du Pont (1880–1969) and is known for its extensive collection of American decorative arts, naturalistic gardens, and research library for studying American art and material culture. Winterthur builds upon the vision of Henry Francis du Pont to inspire and educate through its collection, estate, and academic programs by engaging diverse audiences in the study, preservation, and interpretation of American material culture, art, design, and history.
History:
Winterthur (pronounced “winter-tour”) was named after the Swiss town of the du Pont family’s origin. The mansion that now houses the museum was built in the early 20th century. The du Pont family made their fortune by manufacturing gunpowder and chemicals.
Henry Francis du Pont, the last family member to live at Winterthur, developed a love for gardening and decorative arts. He expanded the house from a 12-room family home to a 175-room mansion to display his collection of American decorative arts from 1640-1860.
During the 1920s and 1930s, du Pont cultivated an extraordinary garden. He aimed to have plants blooming in his garden every day of the year. He even moved mature trees using specially designed equipment.
Du Pont opened Winterthur to the public as a museum in 1951. After his death, the Winterthur Estate and his extensive collection of antiques continued to be maintained according to his aesthetic.
Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library
