The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of
American Art

445 North Park Avenue
Winter Park, Florida 32789
407-645-5311

By  Mike Miller July 20, 2024

Located on Park Avenue in the heart of downtown Winter Park, Florida, the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum is a treasure chest of  American art and culture. I lived in Winter Park for two years and this was one of my favorite places to take visitors.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Park Avenue Entrance

Renowned for its comprehensive collection of works by Louis Comfort Tiffany, the museum offers a captivating journey through the art and design of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

With a rich history and an array of exhibits, the Morse Museum is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

The Morse Museum was established in 1942, thanks to the vision and dedication of Jeannette Genius McKean, the granddaughter of Charles Hosmer Morse.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Restored Chapel

Charles Hosmer Morse, a Chicago industrialist, played a significant role in the development of Winter Park. His legacy is preserved not only through the museum but also in the cultural and educational landscape of the city.

Under Jeannette McKean's guidance, the museum grew from a modest collection to a renowned institution, showcasing American art's finest works.

Over the decades, the museum has undergone several expansions and renovations to accommodate its growing collection and visitor base. Each milestone in its history marks a step towards preserving and celebrating American art and culture.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art

At the heart of the Morse Museum is the unparalleled Tiffany Collection. Louis Comfort Tiffany, an iconic American artist and designer, is best known for his innovative work in stained glass.

The museum houses an extensive array of Tiffany's masterpieces, including stained glass windows, lamps, jewelry, pottery, paintings, and mosaics. Each piece reflects Tiffany's exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision.

One of the collection's highlights is the meticulously restored chapel interior from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. This stunning exhibit offers a glimpse into the grandeur and spirituality of Tiffany's design.

A friend of mine, the late John Maseman, was one of the key principals involved in the restoration.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Stained Glass

The museum's dedication to restoring and preserving Tiffany's works ensures that future generations can appreciate these artistic treasures.

Beyond the Tiffany Collection, the Morse Museum boasts a rich array of American art from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Visitors can explore works by key artists of the period, gaining insight into the artistic movements and cultural shifts of the time.

The museum also features European decorative arts, providing a broader context for the American pieces on display.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Stained Glass

The Daffodil Terrace is another must-see exhibit, showcasing Tiffany's affinity for natural forms and his extraordinary ability to blend art and architecture.

Additionally, the museum's collection of American art pottery highlights significant pieces and their creators, illustrating the evolution of this unique art form.

The museum building itself is a work of art. Designed with attention to detail and an appreciation for architectural beauty, it provides an ideal setting for the exhibits.

The Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art
Tiffany Lamps

The McKean Pavilion, a recent addition, further enhances the museum's offerings, providing space for special exhibits and educational programs.

As the museum continues to grow, future expansion plans promise to enrich the visitor experience even further.