Oscar Hammerstein Traveling Museum

Oscar Hammerstein II was one of America’s most celebrated songwriters, producers, and directors– and he was also a longtime resident of Bucks County, Pennsylvania. From 1940 to 1960, Hammerstein lived and worked in a 19th century farmhouse in Doylestown, creating now-world-renowned works (with professional partner Richard Rodgers) such as Oklahoma!, Carousel, The King and I, South Pacific, and The Sound of Music.

Hammerstein’s former property, which has operated as a bed and breakfast for a dozen years, is now at risk of being divided, sold and demolished. Visionaries in Bucks County have stepped up to try to preserve the home and convert it into a museum. They created a nonprofit organization called the Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center, and are now embarking on an awareness and fundraising campaign. As part of this campaign, a curated exhibition– the Oscar Hammerstein Traveling Museum– will be showcased in Bucks County. The first venue for the display is Peddler’s Village, located just a few miles from Oscar Hammerstein’s former home.

On display are personal items of Oscar’s as well as prized memorabilia including his rocking chair, private photos and letters, a replica of his Underwood typewriter, set pieces from the original Broadway run of South Pacific, and more.  These treasures are destined to be housed in the Oscar Hammerstein Museum, but while fundraising is underway, are being shared with the public in an effort to broaden awareness of the Museum and fundraising effort.

#SaveOscarsHome is a campaign that was created by a local nonprofit group working to turn Oscar’s home into a Museum and Theatre Education Center for all to enjoy.  Before renovation can begin, the group must raise enough money to purchase the property from its current owner; in doing so, this historically significant property will be saved from subdivision and possible destruction. Lean more about the project and how you can help at www.hammersteinmuseum.org.