This holiday season, Kelton House Museum and Garden is hosting a one-of-a-kind holiday experience: A Visit with Dickens – Victorian Holiday Tour.
The tour will kick off on December 14 at 6 p.m. and will bring Victorian traditions and Dickensian flair to life with festive decor, storytelling, and seasonal treats.
Guests will journey through the historic Kelton House, beautifully adorned with vintage holiday decor and ornaments.
The tour is guided and includes interpretive performances that dive into Charles Dickens’ American travels, specifically his experiences captured in American Notes for General Circulation.
Dickens visited the U.S. in the 1840s, including a stop in Columbus, which left a lasting impression on the author. Through this unique tour, you’ll get a sense of what America looked like through Dickens’ eyes, all while learning about Victorian holiday traditions celebrated by families like the Keltons.
Each tour wraps up with live period music by pianist Priscilla Hewetson, a holiday sing-along, and a chance to meet Father Christmas himself.
To top it all off, you’ll enjoy punch and cookies—a cozy end to an enchanting evening. Each tour lasts about 45 to 50 minutes, and groups are kept small, with a 16-person maximum, allowing for an intimate and immersive experience.
A Peek into Kelton House’s Rich History
Kelton House is more than a Victorian gem; it’s a piece of Columbus history with deep ties to the community. Originally built in the mid-1800s, the home was lived in by the Kelton family for three generations. It was later established as a museum in 1976 by the Junior League of Columbus to preserve its historical significance and celebrate Victorian decorative arts.
As an actual stop on the Underground Railroad, Kelton House also preserves the compelling stories of the Hartway/Lawrence family, who once sought refuge here. Today, the museum continues to share these powerful narratives and Victorian heritage through tours, private events, and holiday experiences like this Dickens-inspired tour.
Event Details
- Date: December 14, 2024
- Times: Tours start at 6:00 pm and 7:00 pm
- Duration: Approximately 45-50 minutes
- Tickets: Reservations are encouraged due to limited group sizes. No discounts or Groupons accepted.
- Age Recommendation: Content is recommended for ages 13 and up.
Don’t miss this chance to experience Kelton House all dressed up for the holidays, with a dash of Victorian charm and a sprinkle of Dickensian wit. You can grab “Early Bird” tickets for $35 until December 1. After that, prices will increase to $40. For tickets or more information on Kelton House tours, special events, or volunteer opportunities, visit keltonhouse.com.
