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The Potter Palmer mansion on North Lake Shore Drive is long gone. Most of the mansions on Prairie Avenue on Chicago's Near South Side have been demolished. And the several McCormick mansions along Rush Street. Not much is left of the majestic residences dating to the Gilded Age. One notable exception is the historic Samuel M. Nickerson House at 40 East Erie Street, at Wabash, a block east of the Magnificent Mile. Built in 1883, it houses Richard H. Driehaus Museum, which broadly interprests and displays the prevailing design, architecture and decorating tastes of Gilded Age America. The building was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and designated a Chicago Historic Landmark in 1977. In 2003, Chicago businessman, philanthropist and art collector Richard H. Driehaus acquired the building and established it as a museum. It was opened to the public in 2008. The luxurious interiors are replete with marble, onyx, carved exotic and domestic woods, glazed tiles and stained glass. On display are original furnishings from the Nickerson era along with American and European decorative arts of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, including a number of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany. Many of the artworks on display are selections from the private Driehaus Collection. See the suite of carver neo-Empire maple chairs by George A. Schastey & Co. of New York, a rare Chickering and Sons grand piano and a Herter Brothers extension dining table of quarter-sawn white oak. Also a brass chandelier from Thurlow Lodge, exquisite vases by Emile Galle and Sevres, a gilt-bronze mantel clock by Deniere and a Venetian marble sculpture by Oscar Spalmach depicting the mythical figures of Cupid and Psyche. A walk through the Driehaus Museum aka the Nickerson House is like taking a journey through the Gilded Age.…
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Date of experience: October 2020
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Visited with family this wonderful and traditional building. A lot of hidden treasures. You have to appreciate the detailed mosaic work and beautiful dinning room table setting.
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Date of experience: October 2020
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The Richard H. Driehaus Museum is just a couple blocks off Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. This palatial Mansion, dubbed ‘The Marble Palace’ was commisioned by Chicago Banker. Samuel Mayo Nickerson and his wife Mathilda in 1879 and completed in 1883. Today, within the ‘Marble Palace’ walls lay the fascinating story of the Nickerson’s, who were deeply involved in Chicago’s social, civic and philanthropic life; the many owners and occupants following throughout the years; to Richard Driehaus incredible ‘gift’ to Chicago and all the world to enjoy. Mr. Driehaus purchased this property in 2003 and began a five-year restoration, inside and outside, to bring this home back to its original lavish opulence, for all to enjoy. Join family and friends on this fascinating journey in the Museum of fine art, architecture and opulence. This is a true ‘Treasure’ in the heart of Chicago.…
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Date of experience: December 2019
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We visited on a Sunday afternoon when it was quiet. Our guide was very knowledgeable and took our party swiftly through the house so that we had time to retrace our step staking photos and reading the signage. We enjoyed the Tiffany windows exhibition too. Allow a couple of hours to explore this place properly.…
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Date of experience: January 2020
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This is like nothing else we have ever seen - the woodwork in the various rooms is extraordinary. The tour was comprehensive and very interesting.
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Date of experience: March 2020
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