Explore Chattanooga Summer 2024

T he Houston Museum of Decorative Arts is home to a spec tacular collection curated by a remarkable woman. Born on April 27, 1876, in Evening Shade, Arkansas, Anna Shafley Hous ton, known as “Antique Annie”, was an eccentric collector. Her passion began in the 1920’s when she opened the Red Brick Dixie Antique Shop in Chattanooga, TN. Her collection of glassware, ceramics, and other antiques grew to over 15,000 pieces and is one of the finest collections in the world. Annie was the eldest of eleven children, leaving school after sixth grade to care for her siblings after the death of her mother. She was an independent and industrious woman, trying her hand at modeling for hair tonic promotions and later working for Marshall Field in Chicago and Macy’s in New York. Known for her tenacity, Annie worked tirelessly to preserve her collection. Today, the Houston Museum of Decorative Arts is a testament to her persistence. Opening to the public in 1961, the collection can be found within the Bluff View Art District. While the Victorian home at 201 High Street provides the perfect backdrop for this unique collection, the building has begun a much-needed five-million-dollar renovation. A small, specifically curated portion of the collection has been temporarily moved to a pop-up museum location within the nearby historic Martin House.

‘We are proud to be renovating our Victorian house, the oldest home in the Bluff View Art District. Built in the 1890s, this house is part of Chattanooga’s history and we can’t wait for our visitors and community to enjoy the space once it’s complete.’ shared Pam Reed, Museum Director. ‘During the renovations, we have set up a ‘Pop Up’ museum and gift shop inside the Back Inn Cafe, just 1/2 a block from our original house. The Martin House, built in the 1920s, is a beauti ful temporary setting to see Anna Safley Houston’s collection in a freshly curated way.’ While in its temporary location, visitors to the museum can ex perience the same diverse and engaging experience, with exhibits that not only showcase beautiful decorative arts but also tell the stories behind these objects. The museum also features a gift shop with a range of whimsical and beautiful keepsakes​. Anna Safley Houston’s story demonstrates how an individual’s commitment to their vision can leave a lasting cultural legacy. For more information on the museum and the collection,visit thehous tonmuseum.org or call 423-267-7176. You can follow @houstonmuseumofdecorativearts on Face book and Instagram for information on events and interesting information on the collection.

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