At Holiday Walk, guests not only get to see incredible decor in a world-class setting, but you get to learn more of the stories and histories surrounding this National Historic Landmark.
Our Estate Stories showcase some of the unique historic displays that can be viewed during this year’s Holiday Walk.
Meadow Brook Hall’s curator, Madelyn Chrapla, shows just two of the unique displays located in Meadow Brook’s Living Room – a handmade “dress tree” designed to replicate a real dress Matilda wore to a party in 1913 and a look into the beautiful organ chamber, which is on display for the first time in 50 years.
In December 1913, Matilda Dodge Wilson attended a costume party for the Borussen Gesellschaft society of women who study or admire German literature, art, music and ideas. Matilda’s parents were German immigrants and she attended German school as a child. She joined the society as a way to stay close to her heritage.
At the gathering, Matilda dressed as a Christmas Tree in a long cloak and deep hood of green satin trimmed with evergreens, gold and silver ornaments and many-colored electric lights. The gown on display at this year’s Holiday Walk is a recreation that imagines this remarkable costume!
For the first time in more than 50 years, Holiday Walk guests can now see inside the lower level Aeolian Organ chamber. A now-obsolete HVAC system was installed in this chamber in the 1970s, blocking access and obscuring the sound. Over the summer, the Gatehouse Society generously donated their time and energy to clear out the old equipment and clean out the chamber. Listen closely to the organ play – can you hear the difference?
See the Dress Tree and Aeolian Organ Chamber
Watch the reel below to see Meadow Brook Curator Madelyn Chrapla show the Dress Tree and Aeolian Organ Chamber.
Be captivated by the people, places and tales that make Meadow Brook Hall so remarkable. Our Estate Stories series unlocks the vaults, dives into the archives and seeks out tales of the Great Estate to pique your interest and enrich your life.
