A classic example of early Victorian life in America, the Emlen Physick Estate is one of the most popular attractions in Cape May's historic district, attracting 25,000 visitors annually. The estate was constructed in the 1870s and showcases the architecture, decorative arts and history of both the Victorian era and of Cape May itself.

The Carriage House was constructed in 1876, three years before the main living quarters were completed. The second largest building on the estate, the Carriage House contained horse stalls, tack cabinets and a hayloft. Designed by eccentric Philadelphia architect Frank Furness, the outbuilding features a Victorian-style Mansard Roof and high-peaked dormers.

In 1998, a loan from the Trust enabled the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts (MAC) to stabilize both the roof and the thermal envelope around the Carriage House. Construction crews placed a protective membrane over the sheet metal, removed blown insulation from the walls, and repaired deteriorating wood sheathing.

Now rehabilitated, MAC operates the Carriage House as a popular indoor-outdoor tea room from April through October. In addition, the first-floor houses a gift shop, art gallery and meeting space. The former hayloft on the second floor was converted to office space after extensive electrical and lighting upgrades.

For more information, visit: http://www.capemaymac.org