Gibson House Museum

When Catherine Hammond Gibson moved to this Italian Renaissance row house in 1860, the Back Bay was barely filled in. This was one of the first houses built on Beacon St, and Ms Gibson was considered quite the pioneer (that she was a female homeowner in this ‘New Land’ was even more unusual). The Gibson House attempts to preserve a piece of Victorian-era Boston, showcasing antique furniture and art that was collected by the Gibson family, especially Catherine’s grandson Charles. Four of six levels are open, allowing visitors to see the servants’ quarters, the high-ceilinged library and music room, and Charles’ bedroom and study.