Leisure Pursuits: The Fashion and Culture of Recreation

Exhibition Website

May 12 2018 - May 24 2019

This exhibition looks at the way in which the people of Massachusetts have spent their leisure time interacting with Trustees properties over the last 125 years. Visitors will see original antique and vintage dresses and personal accessories that were integrated into activities such as gardening, entertaining, fitness, water activities, equestrian pursuits, and travel at and to various properties.

Since 1891, The Trustees has cared for properties of “exceptional scenic, historical, and ecological” value in Massachusetts. Today, over 26,000 acres are maintained by our organization, making us the largest landowner in the state besides the state itself. Within these special places, spread between 116 reservations, we care for 13 historic houses, 270 miles of trails, 72 archeological sites, 18 vernal pools, and protect 70 miles of coastline. Within this impressive backdrop, the stage is set for people to enjoy and explore these sites.

Through fashion, large-scale photographs, and other objects from our collection, this exhibit will take a fun look at recreation within Massachusetts. From exquisite Parisian couture to fishing waders to breezy linen suits, the way people dressed and the accessories they surrounded themselves with enabled and enhanced their ability to relax.

Credit: Exhibition overview from museum website.

  • Costume
  • International
  • Culture / Lifestyle
  • Various artists

Exhibition Venues & Dates