The John N.A. Griswold House: Blending Art and Architecture

Richard Morris Hunt is best known for his grand Beaux Arts mansions like Marble House and The Breakers. But, his design of the John N.A. Griswold House was just as groundbreaking – if not more so. The architectural historian Sarah Landau wrote, “The Griswold House is far more sophisticated in concept and detailing than other wooden houses of its time in America. Its overhangs and outcroppings are genuinely evocative of the old half-timbered buildings found in many parts of Europe…”. This talk will explore the architect, the owner, and the evolution of the property from cottage to art museum.

Attendees will enjoy a brief reception in the galleries before the lecture begins. There will be a Q&A session upon conclusion of the lecture.

This lecture is made possible through generous support from Chas A. Miller III.

Mike Franco is a trial lawyer with a practice in Massachusetts. He lives in a historic home in Newport and has a lifelong interest in Newport history and architecture. Mike moderates the popular Facebook group “Newport, Lost & Found,” which explores Newport’s Gilded Age architecture. He has given talks for the Newport Historical Society on Hunt and the local architect George Champlin Mason.