Brandywine River Museum, Chadds Ford, PA

The Wyeths – A Chester County Treasure

These icons belong together.  The one is a small majestic stream well know to those who kayak, canoe, fish and picnic in the Brandywine Valley.  The other is a family of artists, giants in the art world, known for their exacting style and organic winter views of Chester County.

Thomas Doughty ,The Brandywine with Gilpin’s Mill, circa 1825-1830

The legacy includes Howard Pyle’s paintings and those of his most famous student, N. C. Wyeth, best known for his illustrations and paintings that covered “Treasure Island” and the “Last of the Mohicans”.  N. C. s off-springs include Andrew, Carolyn, and Henrietta.  Andrew’s son, Jamie, had his first major show by his 20th birthday and he firmly established the third generation of this American family of painters.

The art of illustration is well represented in the galleries. Significant works by F.O.C. Darley, the first major American illustrator, as well as Gibson, Stephens, Parrish and others demonstrate the imagination and skill of this overlooked art form.

This little iconic museum is a perfect outing for some lazy winter weekend
afternoon when the idea of watching anymore TV drives you crazy.  So get out into the crisp winter air, get some exercise and fill your head with some
memorable images.  You will love it!

 

The Brandywine River Museum is located on Route 1 in Chadds Ford, PA.There is an admission fee and additional tours to the Kuerner Farm and the N. C. Wyeth House and Studio.  A Museum shop and restaurant are also available to the public.  However, when I go to museum, I stop at Hank’s Place (across Route 1) at the light.  This little Mom & Pop restaurant/diner offers the best variety and quality of plain good food. Don’t forget to order a slice of their daily fresh strawberry pie!

Thanks for Reading,

Claire

http://www.ClaireRichardsRealtor.com