The Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle offer a look into the lives of Americans before the Industrial Revolution. Here are four exhibits you don’t want to miss.
Rooms Filled with Tiles
Fonthill Castle, built between 1908 and 1912, was meant to showcase the tiles and prints created by Henry Chapman Mercer and serve as his home. With over 44 rooms full of displays, you can see decorative ceramic tiles from all over the world and thousands of prints by European and American artists. Many of these works are actually integrated into the walls and ceilings of the castle.
Tools of the Old World
To see how the American people functioned throughout daily life and in different jobs, the Mercer Museum shows the tools and artifacts of the preindustrial world. Walk along the Open Court area to view displays on food, like cheese making and meat and fruit preservation. Other displays include a look into the tobacco, mining, nautical, and gunsmith trades.
Children’s Exhibits
Kids can also enjoy a visit with hands-on exhibits like “Animals on the Loose” in the Children’s Gallery featuring animal-shaped artifacts to play with. Imagination Gallery is a fun activity space with even more hands-on learning for families.
Darker Side
View a darker side of the museum in the Gallows, Hearse, and Prisoner’s Dock areas. You can walk right under this historic gallows. Don’t forget to check out the Vampire Killing Kit for some seriously useful knowledge.
Whether you’re passing through Doylestown, PA or a long-time resident, the Mercer Museum & Fonthill Castle is a great stop to make.
Image via Flickr by James Loesch
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