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Group Tours are available on topics ranging from the Revolutionary War to American Impressionist art. Please call to let us know how we can personalize your visit for groups of 10 or more. Reservations should be made two weeks prior to visit. Group reservation rate is $7 per person. Call 203-869-6899 x 18 to make a reservation.
The Cos Cob Art Colony
A guided tour of the Bush-Holley House begins in 1900 as four authentic period rooms recreate the Holley boarding-house during the Cos Cob art colony era begun in 1890 by American Impressionists John Henry Twachtman and J. Alden Weir. Art work on display in the guest room used by Childe Hassam and in Elmer MacRae's studio illustrates how the house and its setting inspired artists.
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Greenwich in the New Nation
The tour then steps back to the year 1821 to explore the history of the last generations of the Bush household to occupy the 1730s saltbox mansion. The merchant's bedroom, widow's sick room and newlyweds' stylish parlor contrast with the slaves' attic sleeping quarters. The unique presentation of slave quarters distinguishes Bush-Holley House as one of the few historic homes in New England to interpret the everyday lives of slaves.
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Slavery Focused Tours
Groups can also arrange to take a special tour of Bush-Holley House focusing on the history of slavery in Connecticut. The special program is by advance reservation and emphasizes the roles of the Bush family slaves. In the house, visitors are encouraged to handle and use reproduction objects relating to the everyday lives of slaves. Tours are approximately 45 minutes and cost $7 per person. Groups are limited to 25 people.
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Historic Landscape
You may also explore our extensive grounds, interpreted to appear as they did during the height of the Cos Cob art colony, complete with grape arbor, vegetable garden, view of Cos Cob harbor, and a newly renovated barn. No reservation required.
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