Rose Hill Mansion 2025 Season Opening
By Mel Oles, Visitor Services and Program Manager at Rose Hill Mansion and Johnston House
Rose Hill Mansion opens May 1 for the 2025 season with a new exhibit, specialty tour, and an addition to Family Day.
Rose Hill Mansion by Agnes Swan Hutchins, 1912
The 2025 exhibit is Without Asking Permission: The Art of Agnes Swan Hutchins and Margaret Hutchins. Born into wealth in the 1800s, Agnes Swan Hutchins (1864-1951) and her daughter Margaret Hutchins (1897-1961) had the leisure time to pursue their own interests. Freed from the demands of domestic labor and economic necessity, Agnes and Margaret were able to develop their own artistic talents. Inspired by the Finger Lakes region and their travels, they expressed themselves through paintings and sketches. Whether alone or with groups of fellow artists, Agnes worked in watercolors while Margaret preferred oil. Without Asking Permission will be on display in the East Tenant Cottage at Rose Hill Mansion through October 31, 2025.
To accompany Without Asking Permission, a new specialty tour of the mansion will explore works of art created by or depicting women from Historic Geneva’s collection. Learn how artists portrayed women and how women were able to pursue artistic endeavors in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The tour will be offered on May 31, June 28, July 26, August 23, September 13, and October 11 at 11 am and May 29, June 12, July 10, August 7, September 25, and October 23 at 2 pm. Space is limited, and advance tickets are required.
Rose Hill Mansion by Margaret Hutchins
One of the highlights of the season is the Family Day art show on August 9. To celebrate Agnes and Margaret, we invite artists of all ages to go outside and create their own works of art for the art show. The art show will be on the front lawn of the mansion, with booths of artists showcasing the talents. Guidelines and more information can be found here.
Over the past few months, significant renovations have been made to the grounds, including a new driveway, improved parking lot, and new trees planted. These improvements aim to take the site back in time and enhance the overall visitor experience, making it easier and more enjoyable for guests to explore. There are different phases of the project to our grounds project. We will be providing updates through blog and newsletter articles, social media, and more. If you want to know more about our “History in Progress” follow us on social media or join our email list.
With the 2025 season at Rose Hill Mansion, there has never been a better time to engage with art, history, and nature. Without Asking Permission, enhanced landscape, and specialty tours promise an enriching experience for all visitors. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Rose Hill Mansion offers something for everyone.
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