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Hearthstone Historic House Museum: A Glimpse into the Electrified Past

Explore the dawn of domestic electricity at the Hearthstone Historic House Museum, the first home in the world powered by hydroelectricity.

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Step back in time at the Hearthstone Historic House Museum in Appleton, Wisconsin, the first home in the world powered by a centrally located hydroelectric station using the Edison system. This beautifully restored Queen Anne Victorian mansion offers a unique look at late 19th-century life and the dawn of domestic electricity.

A brief summary to Hearthstone Historic House Museum

Local tips

  • Check the museum's website for tour times and special events before your visit.
  • Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours for a comprehensive tour of the house and exhibits.
  • The first floor and lower level are wheelchair accessible via an electric lift.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Hearthstone Historic House Museum is located in a residential area of Appleton. If you are in the downtown area, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk. Head west on College Avenue, then turn left onto N. Bateman Street, followed by a right onto W. Prospect Avenue. The museum will be on your left.

  • Public Transport

    Valley Transit operates bus routes throughout Appleton. Check the Valley Transit website or app for the most up-to-date route information and schedules. Several routes have stops within walking distance of the museum. A single ride fare is typically $2.00.

  • Taxi/Ride-share

    Taxi services like Fox Valley Cab and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Appleton. A short ride from downtown to the museum will likely cost between $8 and $15, depending on the service and time of day.

  • Driving

    If driving, navigate to 625 W Prospect Ave, Appleton, WI 54911. Ample parking is available near the museum. Street parking is available. Several parking ramps are located in downtown Appleton, including the Red Ramp, Green Ramp and Yellow Ramp. Metered street parking costs $1.00 per hour and is limited to two hours from 9 am to 6 pm, Monday through Saturday. Parking is free after 6 PM on weekdays, and all day on Sundays and holidays. Rates at parking ramps are $3.00 for less than 4 hours and $6 for more than 4 hours.

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Discover more about Hearthstone Historic House Museum

The Hearthstone Historic House Museum, located in Appleton, Wisconsin, offers a captivating journey into the past. Built in 1882 for Henry James Rogers, a paper company executive, this Queen Anne Victorian home holds the distinction of being the first in the world to be lit by a centrally located hydroelectric station using Thomas Edison's system. Designed by Wisconsin architect William Waters, the house showcases the elegance of the Victorian era with intricate woodwork, expansive windows, and stunning fireplaces. The home has been meticulously restored to reflect its original splendor, featuring original Thomas Edison electroliers and light switches that still illuminate the rooms today. Visitors can explore the various rooms, each thoughtfully curated with original furnishings, artwork, and personal items, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the Rogers family and subsequent owners. Beyond its architectural beauty, the Hearthstone Museum highlights the groundbreaking achievement of harnessing hydroelectric power. The museum's exhibits delve into the history of electricity and its impact on society, with a special focus on Edison's inventive legacy and the role of hydroelectricity in shaping the development of the area. The Hydro-Adventure center in the basement offers interactive exhibits for all ages, including a chance to ride a high-wheel bike and generate electricity. The Hearthstone Museum is more than just a historic house; it's a testament to innovation and a window into a pivotal moment in American history.

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