Edward Gorey was a prolific illustrator who worked in near-complete isolation for much of his life in this very house.
The house showcases Gorey's massive collection of vintage ephemera, including thousands of postcards and items he used as inspiration.
The museum actively promotes animal welfare, as Gorey bequeathed his entire estate to a trust benefitting cats and dogs.
The property contains original sets and costumes designed by Gorey for his various theatrical productions.
Every year, the museum curates new thematic exhibitions that explore different facets of Gorey's vast and varied bibliography.
The building was historically known as the 'Elephant House' among local residents during Gorey's residency.
The Edward Gorey House is the former residence of the renowned author and illustrator, preserved as a museum dedicated to his life and eccentric aesthetic. Located in Yarmouth Port, the house displays a rotating selection of original drawings, personal artifacts, and ephemera from Gorey's prolific career. The museum focuses on his contributions to literature, theater design, and his distinctively macabre artistic style. Visitors can explore the preserved rooms where Gorey lived and worked from 1979 until his death in 2000. It serves as the headquarters for the Edward Gorey Charitable Trust, which manages his literary estate and archives. The site specifically highlights his passion for animal welfare, often hosting exhibits that reflect his lifelong advocacy for cats. The architecture is a classic 19th-century New England home that provides an intimate look into the creator's private world.
The front porch and the unique, often quirky signage displayed in the yard.
Check the museum's exhibition schedule before visiting to see if a specific theme is currently on display.
Explore the small garden on the property, which is carefully maintained to reflect the quiet nature of the grounds.
Visit the gift shop for high-quality, exclusive merchandise related to Gorey’s illustrations that are not available in mass-market stores.
Do not expect a large, modern museum experience; this is an intimate, residential-scale historic home.
Open seasonally from spring through late autumn; closed during the winter months.
Maintain a quiet volume and avoid touching any of the original artifacts or archival displays.
