Is there a museum? |
Well, it depends what your definition of a museum is. We here on the Roycroft Campus do not think of the site as a museum, but as a living, breathing destination where workshops, lectures and events are happening on a continual basis. If you are looking for “historic” pieces and original Roycroft artwork there are some. When you enter the Copper Shop, the doors open to the 1902 portion of the building which houses a small area of historic photographs, original Roycroft pieces, original Dard Hunter window pane drawings and an operational antique letter press printer. Other original items and artwork can be found in the Roycroft Inn. A short distance from the campus you will also find the Elbert Hubbard Museum which contains an extensive collection of original books, furniture and copper crafts. |
Are there guided or self-guided tours? |
If you provide us with advance notice, we are pleased to arrange a guided tour. The RCC offers a wonderful, guided walking tour of the Roycroft Campus that includes information on Elbert Hubbard, the Arts and Crafts movement, the workers and architecture of the Campus. Learn about Elbert Hubbard’s philosophy, contributions and successes at the beginning of 20th century America. Visitors will enjoy knowing the past, present and future activities of each structure located on this National Historic Landmark. This tour is filled with enjoyable facts about the people, places and things during a special time in our history! The Roycroft Campus Corporation also offers a wonderful, walking tour brochure. We welcome you to visit, explore and learn more about this Arts and Crafts Community by yourself. The brochures are available at the Copper Shop and Roycroft Inn. |
How many buildings are there? |
The original Campus when at its peak had 14 buildings with operations. Currently there are 9 buildings remaining on the Campus in different stages of reconstruction and restoration. Two of these structures are currently owned by the RCC; the Copper Shop and the Power House. The Power House just completed a major reconstruction phase and reopened in April of 2012. |
Are the buildings open to the public? |
All of the buildings on campus are in different stages of reconstruction, restoration, occupation and ownership. Several of the buildings are occupied with private businesses and are open during normal business hours, yet are not actively part of the Campus tour. The Copper Shop is open 7 days a week 10:00am – 5:00pm. Next door, inside “The Furniture Shop” you will find Roycroft Campus Antiques, Roycroft Shops, Roycroft Master Artisan - Gordie Galloway’s Leather Studio, Roycroft Master Artisan – Tom Bojanowski’s Studio, and Norberg’s Art and Custom Framing. A short walk down the Appian Way and you arrive at the Roycroft Inn, which is open to the public for a wonderful dining experience, overnight stay or to simply visit and learn more about the restoration that has taken place. The Power House just completed a major reconstruction phase and reopened in April of 2012. It is available for public rentals. For more information regarding Power House rentals click here. |
Is there a fee for visiting the Roycroft Campus? |
No, we welcome you to experience the gallery, shops and Campus grounds at your leisure. If we are able to coordinate a guided tour for you and your guests, we do ask for a donation of $10 per person. Keep in mind the funds collected are used to support the on going efforts of restorations of the Campus. |
Do artisans work there? |
Not every day, yet often times we do have artisan demonstrations and classes that offer the opportunity for this enrichment. The Roycroft Copper Shop Gallery displays work from local and national artisans many of which are Roycroft Renaissance Artisans. Please check the CLASSES listing from the home page for more information. |
Is the Roycroft Inn part of the campus? |
Yes, the Roycroft Inn is located directly across the street from the rest of the campus, a little journey along the Appian Way. Built in 1897, the Roycroft Inn was the first print shop for Elbert Hubbard’s published works. After multiple expansions, it was finally converted into an Inn and opened in July of 1905. Through extensive restoration, it reopened as an Inn in June of 1995. For more information about the Inn and to make reservations, please visit the Inn’s website at www.roycroftinn.com |
Is the Chapel still in operation and can I go to a religious service there? |
The title of “Chapel” does not have the religious meaning that we think of today, but was taken from the medieval guild sense meaning a meeting hall for printers. The main room was first used as a center for book illuminating, home theatricals, lectures and stereo-optican slide shows, later being converted into an art gallery, display and sales room. For the last few decades the Chapel was the home to the Town of Aurora’s municipal government and displays from the historcial society, but they moved out of the building in the Fall of 2012. The structure is currently under restoration and will hopefully open to the public in the near future as part of the Campus. |
