Our Story and Mission

About Winterthur

Truly an American treasure, Winterthur is the living vision of collector and horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont (1880–1969), who opened his childhood home to the public in 1951 to showcase his world-renowned collection of 90,000 antiques and decorative arts objects made or used in America between 1640 and 1860.

Today, Winterthur is a museum of American antiques and decorative arts celebrating the best in style and craftsmanship. It is a magnificent naturalistic garden that combines the art of horticulture and landscape design. It is a superlative research library that supports the study of American art, design, and material culture as well as graduate programs in American material culture and conservation.

About the Museum Store

In October 1951, Henry Francis du Pont and his wife, Ruth moved from the expansive 175-room house-turned-museum into their new home at Winterthur—a gracious residence they called “The Cottage.” The modern interpretation of an English Regency-style house was built on the site of the original Winterthur farmhouse. The smaller Cottage offered the du Ponts a more intimate setting for their legendary hospitality. Over the years, guests such as First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy, Prince Rainier of Monaco, artist Andrew Wyeth, and philanthropist Brooke Astor graced these elegant rooms.

Today, the Cottage lives on as the Winterthur Museum Store, offering a distinctive shopping experience that reflects the artistry and heritage of this remarkable place. Here, we continue du Pont's passion for beautiful objects and fine craftsmanship, offering visitors a curated selection of unique decorative items and artisan-made treasures.

Shopping with Purpose

Every purchase you make at the Winterthur Museum Store directly supports Winterthur's mission: to inspire and educate through its collection, estate, and academic programs by engaging diverse audiences in the study, preservation, and interpretation of American material culture, art, design, and history. Your support helps ensure Winterthur endures for generations to come.

We invite you to visit, tour,  and explore this exceptional place of learning, history, and beauty. Learn more and plan your visit today.