Brucemore is a large 26 acre Historical Site full of concerts, festivals and many family fun activities


Brucemore is located in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, at 2160 Linden Drive SE. Brucemore was the home of three wealthy families during the 1880's, the Sinclair Era, through to the 1980's, the Hall Era.

Margaret Douglas Hall wanted her home to become a historical site and place for the community. Brucemore's mission is `to engage the public in the history, traditions, resources and ongoing preservation of Brucemore for the enrichment of the community.' Guides will not only discuss the families of Brucemore, but also the experiences of the servants, technologies, arts, music and how life was living on a country estate. When visitors arrive at Brucemore they will be greeted by a butler in uniform who will introduce visitors to the lady of the house, and then through the house to meet other persons who lived or worked at Brucemore.

Brucemore is a park like estate that boasts a 21 room mansion, beautiful gardens and the history of Brucemore. Visitors are welcome to the estate from March through to December. Tours are offered on Tuesday's to Sundays for a small fee, and no reservations are required. If you are a member of Brucemore there is no fee for the tour. Large groups are able to acquire a discount on tour fees.

Brucemore is an educational centre that only provides information on the families and their workers during each era. The centre is not to be used for weddings or private functions; this is stated in an agreement made by Margaret Douglas Hall to the National Trust for Historical Preservation when the property was handed over to the Trust.

The visitor centre is located in the 1911 Carriage House. The museum store, Cutting, Gardens and the `Families of Brucemore' exhibition are located in this house. Available at the store for purchase are items such as postcards, caps, gardening items and children's toys.

The Brucemore Garden Cutting Shop is one of the premier florists in the Cedar Rapids area. They have a signature arrangement and are able to meet requests from traditional to exotic. The cutting shop began with Irene Douglas who was the Matriarch of the second family who lived at Brucemore.

Brucemore is funded by contributions from members, sales from the Store, tours, grants, donations and endowments from Mr. Hall's sister and brother in law. The centre also relies on Volunteers to keep the house running. Volunteers are required for a varied range of areas, from helping to guide traffic, decorate around the holiday season, work in the store or help with school groups.

Events are held throughout the year at brucemore, these events include walking tours on native trees in the area, art exhibitions, the Cedar Rapids Symphony, `Classic' Theatre shows such as Midsummer Nights Dream, shown outdoors under the stars. Children's act ivies are also run throughout the year, such as Santa visits and storytelling. A one day summer camp is also available for children aged from four to eight.

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