The Frank Lloyd Wright house that Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art bought and moved from New Jersey to Arkansas will open to the public on Nov. 11.
Built in 1954 along the Millstone River in New Jersey, the Bachman Wilson House was purchased by the museum before being disassembled and moved 1,200 miles to the museum grounds in Bentonville.
The home was then meticulously reconstructed and is nearly ready for weekly tours.
Bachman Wilson House Hours
Monday: 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
At its original location, the house had been encroached upon by the river and surrounding landscape over the past few decades. Due to repeated flooding, the house sustained significant damage and relocation was recommended as a means of best preserving the structure. The owners conducted a multi-year search for a purchaser that could provide an appropriate setting and context for the historic building.
“We are excited to share this historic object that embodies our mission to celebrate the American spirit in a setting that unites art and nature,” said Crystal Bridges Executive Director Rod Bigelow. “As the only Frank Lloyd Wright house in Arkansas, it enhances our region’s offerings with unique engagement opportunities for schools, families, and individuals with an interest in architecture, all at no cost to the public.”
Bigelow didn’t say how much the museum paid for the house, but it was on the market for $1.5 million in February 2013.
Ticket information
Beginning Nov. 2, tickets may be reserved online or by calling 479-657-2335. Crystal Bridges’ members will have an opportunity to preview the house in advance of the public opening. Member preview tickets may be reserved in person at Guest Services or by calling the Member Priority Line at 479-418-5728, beginning Aug. 26. Preview tickets are not available online.
- Guided tours will be offered five days per week (no tours Tuesday or Friday) as an hour-long indoor and outdoor experience led by specially trained volunteer tour guides.
- General admission will be a self-guided experience, available each day except Tuesday.
- Notable stops include an architectural exhibition inside the museum’s south corridor, a scale model of the house in the south lobby, and a Welcome Pavilion near the house.
- A full schedule will be available soon on the museum’s website.
- Become a member and receive benefits such as early access to exhibitions and events. For more information, visit crystalbridges.org.
