The Hermitage Museum and Gardens

The Hermitage Museum and Gardens is a nonprofit organization located in Norfolk, Virginia. It is situated on a 12-acre waterfront estate along the Lafayette River, offering a unique blend of art, nature, and history.

History

The estate was initially a summer home for William and Florence Sloane, wealthy New Yorkers who built the house in 1908. Over time, it expanded into a 42-room residence under Florence Sloane's direction. The Sloanes were instrumental in fostering arts within the community, contributing to the founding of the Norfolk Museum of Arts and Sciences, now known as the Chrysler Museum. In 1937, they established the Hermitage Foundation, converting the property into a museum to promote Arts and Crafts, which opened permanently to the public in 1942 following a brief closure after William Sloane's death.

Collections and Exhibitions

The Hermitage features a nationally recognized art collection spanning over 5,000 years, including more than 5,000 objects from 30 countries. The museum regularly hosts contemporary exhibitions and offers educational programs through the Goode Family Visual Arts School. It is part of the prestigious Smithsonian Affiliations program, which shares the Smithsonian’s resources across the country to enhance public knowledge of history, science, and culture.

Gardens and Grounds

The gardens, originally designed by Florence Sloane in the 1920s, include a diverse array of flora such as Eastern Red Cedars, Himalayan Cedars, Live Oaks, and Southern Magnolias. The property's proximity to brackish wetlands makes it an excellent location for studying the salt tolerance of various plant species.

Recognition and Community Engagement

The Hermitage was accredited by the American Alliance of Museums in 2017. It offers free admission and hosts various events, including outdoor concerts and art camps, making it a significant cultural and educational center in Norfolk.

Operations

The museum operates from Tuesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and offers guided and group tours for a deeper insight into its history, collections, and the legacy of the Sloane family. The estate is also a popular venue for weddings and community events, providing a unique setting for cultural and social gatherings.