Bachman-Wilson House designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in its original New Jersey location
Photo: TarantinoSTUDIO © 2013; courtesy Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville, Arkansas
Originally published by Group Tour Magazine – September 18, 2015
BENTONVILLE, Ark. — In 2014, Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art announced the acquisition of a rare Frank Lloyd Wright house originally built in 1954 along the Millstone River in New Jersey. Since then, the house has been disassembled, transported 1,200 miles across the country and meticulously reconstructed on the grounds of the museum.
Construction is now in the final stages and the house is scheduled to open to the public on November 11, 2015, the fourth anniversary of Crystal Bridges’ opening.
Crystal Bridges Executive Director Rod Bigelow said, “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. 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.”
Known as the Bachman-Wilson House, the home was threatened by repeated flooding at its original location. The previous owners, architect/designer duo Lawrence and Sharon Tarantino, determined that relocating the house was the best option for preservation. After their multi-year search, Crystal Bridges acquired the house in 2013, and the house arrived in Northwest Arkansas in April, 2014.
The house is now situated a short distance from the museum, along the trails, with views overlooking the native woodlands and Crystal Spring.
The Frank Lloyd Wright house will open to the public on November 11, 2015, with no admission cost, during the same hours as the museum’s art galleries.
“Our goal is to provide as much access as possible while being responsible stewards of the house,” said Crystal Bridges Chief Engagement Officer Niki Stewart. “To that end, we will welcome visitors to see the house on their own with general admission, or take a guided tour. Because of the intimate size of the house, we are requiring reservations to enter, while the grounds around the house are accessible without a ticket.”
Beginning November 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.
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.