Matilda Joslyn Gage Home Museum
1 / 10

Matilda Joslyn Gage Center

4.8
·40 reviews·Fayetteville, United States

Discover the home and legacy of Matilda Joslyn Gage, a radical suffragist, abolitionist, and Indigenous rights advocate, and her influence on the Land...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Fridays & Saturdays

Open hours for exploration

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Matilda Joslyn Gage Home Museum

Matilda Joslyn Gage Center

Best Time

Fridays & Saturdays

Open hours for exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover the home and legacy of Matilda Joslyn Gage, a radical suffragist, abolitionist, and Indigenous rights advocate, and her influence on the Land of Oz.

4.8
(40 reviews)

"This place is a powerful tribute to a true visionary, Matilda Joslyn Gage, and her work as a radical human rights activist."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Plan Your Visit

Check the official website for current hours and special events before you go.

📚 Dive into History

Allow ample time to explore the exhibits and learn about Gage's incredible life and work.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Matilda Joslyn Gage's Home

Matilda Joslyn Gage's Home

Fayetteville, New York

Explore the historic home of a pioneering suffragist, abolitionist, and Indigenous rights advocate. Feel the echoes of history in every room.

The Land of Oz Connection

The Land of Oz Connection

Exhibits within the center

Uncover how Matilda Joslyn Gage's progressive ideas influenced L. Frank Baum's iconic 'Wizard of Oz' series.

Suffrage Movement Archives

Suffrage Movement Archives

Library and archives

Delve into a rich collection of documents and artifacts detailing the fight for women's suffrage and social justice.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Uncover a Forgotten Suffragist

Step into the world of Matilda Joslyn Gage, a radical suffragist and human rights activist whose story is often overlooked. This center is dedicated to preserving her powerful legacy and inspiring future generations. Plan your visit to delve into women's history and social justice.

Connect with History and Oz

Discover the surprising link between Matilda Joslyn Gage and the Land of Oz! Learn how her advocacy influenced L. Frank Baum's beloved stories. The center offers a unique blend of historical exploration and whimsical discovery, making it a fascinating stop for all ages.

Best Times

When
Fridays & Saturdays
Why
Open hours for exploration
Crowd
Low
When
Special Event Days
Why
Engaging programs & exhibits
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This was such an amazing experience 🥹 I felt like I was back home at a local store at the plaza 😭 #puertorico #fayetevillenc #puertoriccan #travel #northcarolina
@yassytries
9.3K likes • 92.8K views

🎯 Plan Your Visit

Check the official website for current hours and special events before you go. Instagram

📚 Dive into History

Allow ample time to explore the exhibits and learn about Gage's incredible life and work. Reddit

Celebrate Pride with Matilda Joslyn Gage! We are kicking off Pride Month with a bang & we hope you'll join in the celebrations! 💜 Sunday, June 1st @ 12pm Pride Flag Raising Fayetteville Village Hall Open House & Reception Gage Center until 2pm ALL ARE WELCOME 💜 Wednesday, June 4th - Sunday, June 8th Oz-Stravaganza Extended Hours Friends of Dorothy & Ozma are welcome to explore the connectio...
mjg_center
39 likes • 498 views
Ever wonder why L. Frank Baum's stories center around strong female protagonists? The answer may have to do with the influence of his mother-in-law, women's rights advocate and author Matilda Joslyn Gage.
americanexperiencepbs
191 likes • 3.3K views

🎁 Support the Center

Consider purchasing a unique item from the gift shop to support their preservation efforts. Instagram

💡 Connect with Oz

Don't miss the fascinating exhibits detailing Gage's influence on the Land of Oz. Instagram

Matilda Joslyn Gage Center Internship 2022 Remembering the Forgotten Suffragist
zacqueline_
48 likes • 6.7K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Plan Your Visit

Check the official website for current hours and special events before you go. Instagram

📚 Dive into History

Allow ample time to explore the exhibits and learn about Gage's incredible life and work. Reddit

🎁 Support the Center

Consider purchasing a unique item from the gift shop to support their preservation efforts. Instagram

💡 Connect with Oz

Don't miss the fascinating exhibits detailing Gage's influence on the Land of Oz. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(40 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Matilda Joslyn Gage Center as an inspiring and powerful tribute to a visionary activist. The center is lauded for its passionate staff and the engaging way it presents history, particularly Gage's role in the suffrage movement and her surprising connection to the Land of Oz. It's described as a must-visit for anyone interested in history, women's rights, and social justice.

"Matilda Joslyn Gage Center is an absolute gem! This place is a powerful tribute to a true visionary, Matilda Joslyn Gage, and her work as a radical human rights activist. The center beautifully preserves her legacy and continues her fight for social justice. It's inspiring to learn about Gage's contributions to the women's suffrage movement and her advocacy for Indigenous rights. A must-visit for anyone interested in history, women's rights, and social justice."

Elizabeth McCall Pacheco

"My class from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) visited this location as one of our stops on a week-long research visit to New York, and it was most definitely a contender for the class’ favorite site. To say that we had a special experience here would be an understatement. The way history is told at this location is so exciting! My classmates and I could almost feel the spirit of Gage and the entire suffrage movement flowing through us like waves of wisdom. Each room is a tailored and interactive experience, and the staff is so passionate about preserving the legacy of the great Matilda Joslyn Gage. More people need to know her name, so don’t miss out on stopping here, folks!"

Nidal

"The Matilda Joslyn Gage Foundation of Fayetteville, New York is a historical library of one of the most important pioneering suffragist, abolitionist, and Native American rights advocate."

Bill Bullen

What People Like

Inspiring historical tribute
Passionate staff
Oz connection

What People Dislike

Limited hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Matilda Joslyn Gage Center is located in Fayetteville, New York. While specific public transport details are not widely shared, driving is a common method. Visitors often mention it as part of research visits to the New York area. Reddit

Information regarding specific parking availability is best confirmed directly with the center. However, as it's a historical home, street parking or nearby public lots are typical options for such venues.

Yes, the center is an excellent destination for a day trip, especially if you're interested in women's history and the origins of the Wizard of Oz. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The center is typically open on Fridays and Saturdays from 12 PM to 4 PM. It's always recommended to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours and any special closures. Instagram

Admission details and pricing are best found on the official Matilda Joslyn Gage Center website. They often have special events with separate ticketing. Instagram

For regular visits, booking in advance might not be strictly necessary, but for special events like brunches or workshops, it's highly recommended. Check their website for event-specific booking information. Instagram

Information on potential discounts for students, seniors, or other groups is usually available on the center's official website or by contacting them directly.

Yes, the center can be a beautiful venue for private events, including weddings. Couples have found it to be a perfect and meaningful location. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore Matilda Joslyn Gage's historic home, learn about her work as a suffragist and activist, and discover her connection to the Land of Oz. The exhibits are described as tailored and interactive. Reddit

The center offers a unique historical perspective that can be engaging for older children and teens interested in history and literature. The Oz connection is particularly appealing. Instagram

While not explicitly stated for all visits, the passionate staff often provide insightful information. It's worth inquiring about guided tours or special presentations upon arrival. Reddit

The 'Matilda Effect' refers to the phenomenon where women's contributions are often overlooked or attributed to men. The center highlights Gage's work and aims to correct historical oversights. Instagram

Photography policies can vary. It's best to check with the staff upon arrival regarding whether personal photography is permitted within the historic home and exhibits.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The center itself may not have a full-service restaurant, but they occasionally host events like brunches. Instagram For other meals, you'll find various dining options in the nearby Fayetteville or Syracuse areas.

Typically, bringing outside food and drinks into historical house museums is discouraged to preserve the exhibits. It's best to consume them outside the main building.

Fayetteville and the broader Syracuse area offer a range of restaurants, from casual cafes to more formal dining. Exploring local recommendations for the region would be beneficial.

📸 📸 Photography

The historic architecture of the home, the surrounding grounds, and any special exhibits offer great photo opportunities. The connection to the Land of Oz also provides unique visual themes. Instagram

Photography rules can vary in historical sites. It's advisable to confirm with the staff on-site about their policy on interior photography to ensure you comply.

Drone usage is generally restricted at historical sites and residential areas. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.

The center sometimes features art exhibitions, such as the 'Matilda Effect Series' by Lynette Charters, which would be a unique subject for photography. Instagram

Photography is usually permitted during public events, but it's always a good idea to be mindful of other attendees and respect any specific guidelines provided by the organizers. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Matilda Joslyn Gage Center offers a unique blend of history and imagination that can engage families. While the core focus is on women's suffrage and social justice, the connection to 'The Wizard of Oz' provides a whimsical entry point for younger visitors. Instagram Encourage children to explore the exhibits about Matilda's life and discuss how her ideas might have inspired Dorothy's journey. The interactive nature of some displays can also help keep younger minds interested. Reddit

Consider visiting during special events that might have broader appeal. The center's gift shop also offers items that could be of interest, and it's a great way to support the preservation of this important historical site. Remember to manage expectations for very young children, focusing on the Oz connection as a primary draw, while older children and teens can delve deeper into the historical significance. Instagram

📚 History Buffs & Researchers

For those passionate about American history, women's rights, and social justice, the Matilda Joslyn Gage Center is an essential visit. You'll find a wealth of information about a pivotal, yet often overlooked, figure in the suffrage movement. Reddit The center houses historical archives and exhibits that offer deep insights into Gage's radical activism, her writings, and her influence on various social reform movements. Instagram

Researchers will appreciate the opportunity to explore primary source materials and gain a nuanced understanding of the complexities of the 19th-century fight for equality. The center's dedication to preserving Gage's legacy ensures that her contributions are not forgotten. Engaging with the knowledgeable staff can also provide valuable context and direction for further study. Reddit

💍 Couples & Event Planners

The Matilda Joslyn Gage Center offers a truly unique and meaningful venue for weddings and special events. Couples drawn to its rich history and the inspiring legacy of Matilda Joslyn Gage have found it to be a perfect choice for their ceremony. Reddit The historic home provides a beautiful and intimate setting, steeped in stories of advocacy and empowerment. Reddit

Beyond weddings, the center can host other gatherings, providing a distinctive backdrop that resonates with themes of equality and progress. Its significance as a historical landmark adds a layer of depth and purpose to any celebration. Inquire about event rentals to explore how you can host your own memorable occasion at this remarkable site. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Matilda Joslyn Gage: A Radical Visionary

Matilda Joslyn Gage (1826-1898) was a formidable figure in American history, far more radical than often portrayed. She was a leading suffragist, a fierce abolitionist, and a passionate advocate for Indigenous rights. Gage was instrumental in shaping the early women's rights movement, co-founding the National Woman Suffrage Association with Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton. Her writings challenged societal norms and patriarchal structures, advocating for a broader definition of human rights that included equality for all races and genders. InstagramReddit

Her intellectual prowess and unwavering commitment to justice set her apart. Gage's work extended beyond suffrage; she was a prolific writer, lecturer, and organizer who fearlessly spoke out against injustice. The Matilda Joslyn Gage Center serves as a vital hub for understanding her multifaceted contributions and the enduring impact of her activism. Visitors can immerse themselves in her world, exploring her home and the archives that preserve her groundbreaking ideas. Reddit

The 'Matilda Effect' and Her Legacy



The term 'Matilda Effect' itself is inspired by Gage's experience, highlighting how women's achievements have historically been minimized or appropriated. The center actively works to bring her story to the forefront, ensuring her legacy is recognized and celebrated. Instagram Through exhibits and educational programs, the center educates the public about Gage's role in shaping American social justice movements and her influence on literature, particularly her connection to L. Frank Baum's 'The Wizard of Oz.' Instagram

The Wizard of Oz Connection

The Matilda Joslyn Gage Center offers a fascinating glimpse into the surprising literary connections of this historical figure. Matilda Joslyn Gage was the mother-in-law of L. Frank Baum, the author of 'The Wonderful Wizard of Oz.' It's widely believed that Gage's progressive ideas and advocacy for strong, independent women significantly influenced Baum's creation of iconic characters like Dorothy and the Wizard. Instagram+1

Visitors can explore exhibits that detail this unique relationship and how Gage's philosophy of equality and empowerment may have been woven into the fabric of Baum's beloved Oz stories. The center provides context for how a radical suffragist's worldview could inspire a timeless tale of adventure and self-discovery. This connection makes the center a compelling destination for both history buffs and literary enthusiasts. Instagram

A Room Where History Was Made



Within the center, you can see the room where L. Frank Baum and Maud Gage (Matilda's daughter) were married. This personal connection adds another layer of depth to the experience, allowing visitors to stand in a space where significant family and literary history unfolded. It's a poignant reminder of how personal lives and historical movements intertwine. Instagram

You may also like

1 of 2