This year’s theme explores the many notable events and social gatherings hosted by the Seiberlings from 1915 through the 1930s, with a focus on the important role played by the domestic staff. Guided tours return after a hiatus due to the pandemic, along with a full schedule of public programs and special events.
Currently, masks are optional on the estate.
In April, guests who buy a tour ticket and donate a non-perishable food item when they arrive in admissions will receive a second ticket at no charge. All food collected will be donated to the Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank.
The exhibit in the Manor House showcases how the estate was used for family gatherings and celebrations, as well as fundraisers, musical performances and lectures. The exhibit also examines the key role of the domestic staff, and how they orchestrated an event at Stan Hywet Hall, displaying the practical and logistical side of entertaining in a large home during the early part of the 20th century.
Manor House spaces will show how the domestic staff managed the home. The kitchen will look as if the cook is preparing food for a large event — with details about the immigrant workers employed by the family and the job description of the cook. The library appears as if it’s being cleaned while the Seiberlings are out of town, with information about the duties of the housemaid. A guest room will be stripped of bed linens, as if it’s being turned over for the next overnight guest, with details about the responsibilities of the chambermaid.
Visitors to the estate may opt for a self-guided tour or one of the guided tours offered this season, including the Guided Manor House Tour, the Nooks & Crannies Tour, and beginning in May, the Grand Estate and Outdoor History tours.
Stan Hywet’s line-up of public programs begins with the Easter Egg Hunt on April 16. The schedule of public programs also includes Founders’ Day Weekend, June 10-12; the Father’s Day Car Show, June 19; Off the Vine: An Evening Pairing of Food & Wine, July 22; Molto Bella Auto Show, September 11; and Ohio Mart, October 6-9. Murder in the Mansion is select nights in October, and Deck the Hall is select evenings, November 25-December 30. More information is available at stanhywet.org.
HOURS OF OPERATION AND TOUR INFORMATION
Beginning April 1, 2022, Stan Hywet Hall & Gardens is open for tours Tuesday through Sunday from 10am-6pm; the last admission is at 4 pm. The estate is closed to the public on Mondays. Hours of operation for public programs (special events) may be different, and are posted at stanhywet.org. Daytime hours change in December; details may be found at stanhywet.org
Photo courtesy: Stan Hywet
