Beauport: Unveiling the Legacy of Henry Davis Sleeper

April 09, 2024 / Art and Music, Things to Do & See

Welcome to Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House, a historic marvel situated in Gloucester, Massachusetts, offering captivating tours and events to the public.

Explore the distinctive world of Henry Davis Sleeper, one of America’s pioneering interior designers, who, alongside architect Halfdan Hanson, transformed a modest house in 1907 into a sprawling masterpiece featuring over forty rooms adorned with Sleeper’s eclectic collection of hooked rugs, colored glass, ceramics, and period furniture. Each chamber is meticulously curated to evoke different periods or
themes, showcasing Sleeper’s unmatched decorating flair.

Renowned for his enchanting play with light and color, as well as his whimsical arrangement of objects, Sleeper’s house garnered attention in prestigious publications like House Beautiful and Country Life. Hollywood elites such as Joan Crawford and John Mack Brown sought his expertise in the 1930s, while luminaries like Isabella Stewart Gardner frequented his residence. Sleeper’s social circle, including A. Piatt Andrew and Cecilia Beaux, enriched his life and inspired his creative endeavors at Beauport.

For over eighty years, Beauport has welcomed visitors, offering insight into Sleeper’s groundbreaking contributions to design and the intriguing life of Gloucester’s beloved inhabitant. A haven for designers, architects, and enthusiasts alike, Sleeper’s home continues to inspire.

During the 2024 season, select objects from Beauport will be featured in a special exhibition, “The Importance of Being Furnished: Four Bachelors at Home,” at Historic New England’s Eustis Estate in Milton, Massachusetts. Join them this summer for a series of events hosted by exhibition curator R. Tripp Evans, including exclusive tours and a book release celebrating Beauport’s Pride Month activities in June