Welcome to " The Home of Little Women" ... and so much more
Our Second Century of Education, Inspiration, and Preservation
2023 Summer Conversational Series Adult & Teacher Education
“The Angel and the Demon” - Good and Evil in the Life and Literature of Louisa May Alcott
July 16 - 20, 2023
"Allan's Neighbor"
George Housman Thomas
(1824 - 1868)
"The Door Suddenly Closed"
Oswaldo Tofani
(1849 - 1915)
Our burdens are here, our road is before us, and the longing for goodness and happiness is the guide that leads us through . . .
~ Marmee, Chapter I of Little Women ~
About Us
What
Orchard House (c. 1650) is most noted for being where Louisa May Alcott wrote and set Little Women in 1868. This noble home also has a rich history stretching back two centuries beforehand, as well as more than 100 years of life as a treasured historic site open to the public.
Who
The Alcotts were a famous yet flawed family who firmly believed in the power of unconditional love, personal agency, and social justice. Discover the many ways in which they impacted literature, education, philosophy, art, reforms of all kinds -- and each other.
When
Orchard House is open year-round for guided tours, educational programs, living history, and special events. No matter the season, or whether you are a Little Women fan, educator, family, student, or scholar, there's always something to enjoy!
News & Events at Orchard House
Popular "Time Travelers" & "Write Stuff!" Week-long Youth Camps return this Summer!
Popular "Time Travelers" & "Write Stuff!" Week-long Youth Camps return this Summer!
Popular "Time Travelers" & "Write Stuff!" Week-long Youth Camps return this Summer!
July 31 - August 4, 2023
"Time Travelers" Camp
and
August 7 - 11, 2023
"Write Stuff!" Creating Writing Camp
Youngsters ages 8 - 12 are invited to join in our uniquely entertaining and educational virtual week-long intensives. History lovers and aspiring authors will enjoy distinctly creative and fun experiences, and make memories that will last a lifetime!
2023 Summer Conversational Series Adult & Teacher Education July 16 - 20, 2023
Popular "Time Travelers" & "Write Stuff!" Week-long Youth Camps return this Summer!
Popular "Time Travelers" & "Write Stuff!" Week-long Youth Camps return this Summer!
"The Angel and the Demon" -
Good and Evil in the Life and Literature of Louisa May Alcott
What motivated the author so famously lauded as "The Children's Friend" to examine the dark side of humanity, and how did her interest in good and evil play out in her own life? These and many other questions will be fodder for thoughtful examination and lively discussion during this year's Series — don't miss a moment!
Enhanced Visit Experience featuring May Alcott Artwork through September 4, 2023
Popular "Time Travelers" & "Write Stuff!" Week-long Youth Camps return this Summer!
"The Legacy & Allure of Orchard House's Landscape" - Discover Concord Magazine Article
In honor of the Concord Free Public Library's Sesquicentennial and Concord Museum's celebratory "Perpetual Invitation . . ." exhibit, Orchard House is displaying many rarely-seen artifacts related to May Alcott's life and artistic career in every room along our guided tour. Be enlightened by, impressed with, and astonished at May’s talent, and come away with a greater appreciation for this gifted artist whose life (all too brief), joie de vivre, and legacy continue to uplift and enrich us!
"The Legacy & Allure of Orchard House's Landscape" - Discover Concord Magazine Article
"The Legacy & Allure of Orchard House's Landscape" - Discover Concord Magazine Article
"The Legacy & Allure of Orchard House's Landscape" - Discover Concord Magazine Article
Visitors from around the world or across town consider our gardens and grounds to be a perpetual source of hope, joy, and beauty. While Mr. Alcott spent years honoring the historic landscape by carefully tending it, Louisa paid tribute to the family’s love of horticulture in Little Women by having the March sisters cultivate their own flower beds. Read what all the buzz is about in a delightful article written by Executive Director Jan Turnquist — then try your hand at creating your own Little Women Garden!
Discover our Emmy Award-Winning Documentary: Orchard House - Home of Little Women
"The Legacy & Allure of Orchard House's Landscape" - Discover Concord Magazine Article
Discover our Emmy Award-Winning Documentary: Orchard House - Home of Little Women
Orchard House has a rich 350-year historical and literary significance that has finally been captured on film. Viewed by millions nationwide on public television, it has now been awarded an Emmy and is available for purchase from our Museum Store.
(Special pricing available for online orders only)
Annual [Virtual] 5K, 10K, & 1 Miler Walk / Run Benefit for Orchard House
"The Legacy & Allure of Orchard House's Landscape" - Discover Concord Magazine Article
Discover our Emmy Award-Winning Documentary: Orchard House - Home of Little Women
Participate through December 31st;
Donations accepted year-round
Walk, run, stroll, or shimmy during our fun, fitness-focused event that can be done anywhere in the world, in any weather! Participants, their families, friends, and fans are invited to virtually join UTA PIPPIG -- marathon legend, fitness motivator, and event Honorary Chair — to support our public education and historic preservation initiatives.
Little Women Film Festival - February 2, 9, 16, & 23 at 7 pm in The School of Philosophy
"From Page to Screen: An Evening with John Matteson & Scott Halvorson" - October 29, 2022 at 7:00 p
Colonial Concord Christmas Concert - December 20, 2022 at 6:00 pm in The School of Philosophy
Please note that due to inclement weather, the February 23rd showing is POSTPONED to March 2nd
Treat yourself to a February full of Marches!
All four major motion pictures of Little Women (1933, 1949, 1994, 2019) will be shown chronologically on consecutive Thursdays in February in collaboration with The Concord Players
Colonial Concord Christmas Concert - December 20, 2022 at 6:00 pm in The School of Philosophy
"From Page to Screen: An Evening with John Matteson & Scott Halvorson" - October 29, 2022 at 7:00 p
Colonial Concord Christmas Concert - December 20, 2022 at 6:00 pm in The School of Philosophy
A unique opportunity to enjoy beloved holiday music performed by talented Revolutionary War re-enactors in an evocative space. Centuries combine to produce an unforgettable evening of merriment when The Concord Minute Men Fife & Drum Corps offers a delightful medley of holiday favorites in honor of the fact that Orchard House (circa 1650) was home to not one but two Concord Minute Men in 1775! Be on the look-out for details about next year's concert in November 2023.
Happy Holidays!
"From Page to Screen: An Evening with John Matteson & Scott Halvorson" - October 29, 2022 at 7:00 p
"From Page to Screen: An Evening with John Matteson & Scott Halvorson" - October 29, 2022 at 7:00 p
"From Page to Screen: An Evening with John Matteson & Scott Halvorson" - October 29, 2022 at 7:00 p
Be part of an extraordinary event when Pulitzer Prize-winning biographer John Matteson and award-winning screenwriter Scott Halvorson discuss the process of turning a celebrated biography into a compelling screenplay. Held in person at The Concord School of Philosophy on the grounds of Orchard House. Seating is limited; reservations strongly urged.
Offered in conjunction with the 2022 Concord Festival of Authors (discover other CFA events)
Be Inspired to Write Workshops - September 21, 29 and October 5, 12, 2022 at 7 pm
Be Inspired to Write Workshops - September 21, 29 and October 5, 12, 2022 at 7 pm
"From Page to Screen: An Evening with John Matteson & Scott Halvorson" - October 29, 2022 at 7:00 p
Writers of all abilities (18 years+) are invited to join Lara Wilson — author, writing teacher, and co-creator of Be Well Be Here -- and author/educator Jeannine Atkins for uniquely inspiring programming derived from the thoughts, words, and lives of the Alcotts and Marches. Experiment with engaging the observational mode, wisely choose expressive language that resonates, and discover other writing techniques that open your mind, ease your intellect, and ignite your inner wisdom!
2022 Virtual Summer Conversational Series Recorded Proceedings Available
Be Inspired to Write Workshops - September 21, 29 and October 5, 12, 2022 at 7 pm
2022 Virtual Summer Conversational Series Recorded Proceedings Available
"Learning's Altar" -
The Rise of Adult Education and Lifelong Learning in Concord and Beyond
This year’s Summer Adult & Teacher Education Series offered an in-depth examination of the history of adult education around the world, and how programs like The Concord School of Philosophy revolutionized attitudes toward lifelong learning and intellectual growth. Register to receive recordings to watch any time.
Virtual Fundraiser Event: A Conversation with Actor Chris Cooper - October 23, 2021
Virtual Fundraiser Event: A Conversation with Actor Chris Cooper - October 23, 2021
Virtual Fundraiser Event: A Conversation with Actor Chris Cooper - October 23, 2021
Academy Award winner Chris Cooper joins Orchard House Executive Director Jan Turnquist for a scintillating Zoom webinar about the making of Greta Gerwig’s 2019 Little Women film!
We are extremely grateful to Mr. Cooper for giving generously of his time so that all proceeds from this event can benefit Orchard House’s educational programs and historic preservation!
Virtual Event: A Conversation with Author Katherine Sherbrooke - October 28, 2021
Virtual Fundraiser Event: A Conversation with Actor Chris Cooper - October 23, 2021
Virtual Fundraiser Event: A Conversation with Actor Chris Cooper - October 23, 2021
Orchard House Executive Director Jan Turnquist’s special Zoom webinar guest for this year’s Concord Festival of Authors is award-winning historical fiction author Katherine Sherbrooke, who will discuss her new novel, Leaving Coy’s Hill, as well as the connections between celebrated Concord resident Louisa May Alcott and the novel’s central character, Lucy Stone.
Orchard House featured in the March/April 2022 issue of Yankee Magazine
Virtual Fundraiser Event: A Conversation with Actor Chris Cooper - October 23, 2021
Virtual Book Launch - A Worse Place Than Hell . . . by John Matteson - February 9, 2021
In the “Weekend Away” section (pages 68-73, accessible via the link below), Orchard House is one of the sites that Yankee recommends to visit — even if only on the outside — during a Spring weekend trip to Lexington and Concord. You may read the entire issue as well, without a subscription, using the link.
Virtual Book Launch - A Worse Place Than Hell . . . by John Matteson - February 9, 2021
Virtual Book Launch - A Worse Place Than Hell . . . by John Matteson - February 9, 2021
Virtual Book Launch - A Worse Place Than Hell . . . by John Matteson - February 9, 2021
Celebrate the latest publication from the Pulitzer Prize-winning pen of John Matteson -- A Worse Place Than Hell: How the Civil War Battle of Fredericksburg Changed a Nation — by watching the Virtual Book Launch hosted by Orchard House Executive Director Jan Turnquist on Tuesday, February 9, 2021!
"Welcome to Our Home" Monthly Living History Tours
Virtual Book Launch - A Worse Place Than Hell . . . by John Matteson - February 9, 2021
"Welcome to Our Home" Monthly Living History Tours
"Welcome to Our Home" offers an interactive tour with an expert living history guide, allowing for intimate access to fascinating anecdotes about the Alcotts' lives and times. 19th Century games, songs, and a treasure hunt round out this memorable experience suitable for all ages. Offered the fourth Saturday of each month through November, as well as during February and April school vacation.
Please note that these tours are temporarily suspended
Support Us
Your contribution enables us to keep the legacy of Orchard House, the Alcotts, and Little Women alive for generations to come. Find out more about how we put your donations to work, and read our latest Annual Appeal letter about the most current activities and projects funded by the generosity of our donors.
Please consider giving generously to support our mission of public education and historic preservation. Thank you!
Connect with Us Virtually!
Facebook Live with Director Jan "Hope, & Keep Busy Broadcasts"
Facebook Live with Director Jan "Hope, & Keep Busy Broadcasts"
Facebook Live with Director Jan "Hope, & Keep Busy Broadcasts"
Executive Director Jan Turnquist hosted nearly 60 live broadcasts Sundays at 2:00 pm, which continue to be available to view at any time
140 years of "Hillside Chapel" & The School of Philosophy
Facebook Live with Director Jan "Hope, & Keep Busy Broadcasts"
Facebook Live with Director Jan "Hope, & Keep Busy Broadcasts"
Celebrate the unique and evocative structure that has welcomed scholars and students since July 12, 1880!
Little Women Lessons
Facebook Live with Director Jan "Hope, & Keep Busy Broadcasts"
Little Women Lessons
For educators, parents, or students who want to learn about Little Women and Louisa May Alcott
"Maxims of Teaching"
Digital Discoveries of Orchard House & Our Collection
Little Women Lessons
Bronson Alcott was a revolutionary educator and passionate educational reformer -- be inspired by his own words!
Digital Discoveries of Orchard House & Our Collection
Digital Discoveries of Orchard House & Our Collection
Digital Discoveries of Orchard House & Our Collection
All episodes of our Digital Discovery series are available to view any time in our Vimeo Showcase, with more to come as time goes by
Little Women Garden Updates
Digital Discoveries of Orchard House & Our Collection
Digital Discoveries of Orchard House & Our Collection
Follow the beautiful transformation of our Little Women Garden -- a perennial favorite of visitors for decades
Documentary Wins Emmy!
Our Orchard House: Home of Little Women Documentary was honored with the Emmy for Outstanding Historical/Cultural Program/Special during the 42nd Boston/New England Emmy Awards at the Marriott Boston Copley Place on 15 June 2019
John Matteson Virtual Book Launch - February 9, 2021
Celebrate the latest publication from the Pulitzer Prize-winning pen of John Matteson -- A Worse Place Than Hell: How the Civil War Battle of Fredericksburg Changed a Nation -- by watching the recorded Virtual Book Launch hosted by Orchard House Executive Director Jan Turnquist on Tuesday, February 9, 2021!
During the event, Prof. Matteson discussed the genesis of his new book and the poignant, inspiring, often surprising backstories of the five individuals featured within -- Louisa May Alcott, Arthur Fuller, Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr, John Pelham, and Walt Whitman -- as well as how this pivotal time in American history not only provided life-changing lessons in the moment, but continue to hold relevance for turbulent modern times. (Learn more about the book here) This free Webinar was conducted/recorded via Zoom and livestreamed on Facebook. A Trivia Game, Q&A, and virtual toast were also included in the festivities.
A Worse Place Than Hell . . . is still available at a discounted price through our Online Museum Store. Copies purchased from Orchard House include a bookplate signed by the author and a custom-designed bookmark commemorating the publication. Prof. Matteson's Pulitzer Prize-winning Alcott biography, Eden's Outcasts - The Story of Louisa May Alcott and Her Father, and The Annotated Little Women may also be purchased from us.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, Louisa May Alcott's Orchard House was closed to the public since March 13, 2020., but re-opened on August 1, 2021. Tax-deductible contributions in support of tonight's event and future programming are always gratefully accepted here.
Many thanks to those who joined us live on February 9th. We hope many more of you will enjoy watching the recording!