The Nichols House Museum preserves and interprets the 1804 Federal townhouse that was home to landscape gardener, suffragist and pacifist Rose Standish Nichols and her family. Their home and its original art and furnishings provide a glimpse into life on historic Beacon Hill from the mid-19th to mid-20th century. The museum educates and inspires the public through innovative programs, and it continues the conversation on the social concerns the Nichols family embraced that are still relevant today.
Visitors can book tickets in advance on the museum's website for a one-hour guided tour to explore this historic Beacon Hill home, largely intact from the 19th century. The house is a lovely surviving part of the Beacon Hill neighborhood, Charles Bulfinch's architectural legacy, and the contributions of the Nichols family, particularly Rose Standish Nichols, to the city of Boston. The home features a large collection of the Nichols family furnishings, objects, and changes throughout its 100+ years of occupancy before becoming a museum in the 1960s.
The museum provides information about the accomplishments and contributions of the Nichols family, from using the house for events, parties, and discussions on politics and community concerns to living their everyday lives. It also features Rose's love of tapestries and gardens that led to her becoming a landscape architect. The friendly and knowledgeable staff, the beautiful surrounding area, and the professional yet engaging tour make the Nichols House Museum a must-visit for those interested in exploring Boston's history.
Fantastic insight into the early Boston life. Very engaging guide and knowledgeable
August 2026
Excellent & informative tour from Steven. It was really inspiring to learn about the Nichols sisters and their interesting lives, businesses, and accomplishments. Landscape architect, furniture builders, and more - who knew? Girl power! The house is beautiful, as is the surrounding neighborhood. Highly recommend!
June 2026
The two young women were wonderfully informative and friendly. The house is quite interesting as is the story about the family. Recommended.