Why You Need to Visit the Zane Grey Museum
Combine your love for history and literature with a trip to the Zane Grey Museum in Northeast Pennsylvania. The house was the former residence of author Pearl Zane Grey who was an avid writer of fictional western novels. It now stands in the National Register of Historic Places and guests come to explore his artworks, photographs, turn of the century furnishings, and other artifacts reflecting the author’s life. Once you’re finished exploring the museum, access our extensive Vacation Guide for additional historic stops in the Pocono Mountains.
Everything You Need to Know About the Zane Grey Museum
Whether you’re hearing of author Zane Grey for the first time or you’ve read all 90 of his Old West literary works, the Zane Grey Museum is a site you won’t want to miss. Admission is free and the museum is open every weekend. Here is everything you need to know before you visit!
About the Author
Grey was born in Zanesville, Ohio in 1872. As a boy, Zane adored adventure stories and read books about Buffalo Bill and Deadwood Dick feverishly. He composed his first story, “Jim of the Cave,” when he was just 15 years old, only for it to be torn to shreds by his abusive father.
Grey earned a full scholarship to play baseball at the University of Pennsylvania where he studied dentistry. During his collegiate stint, he only exerted the minimum effort and his grades reflected such. He spent the bulk of his time on the ball field, fishing, and writing poetry. He graduated in 1896 and quickly after, opened his own practice in New York City.
Grey met his wife Dolly during a canoe trip in 1900 and they married in 1905. They raised three children together in the Lackawaxen home, but their relationship was not without strain. Grey admits that he suffered long spells of depression and had frequent affairs. Throughout the children’s childhood, he would regularly be away from the family for months at a time.
History of the Home
The home was constructed in 1905 by Grey’s brother, Romer Carl “Reddy” Grey. While occupied, it was divided into two sections—a living space for the family and a writing studio. The pristinely manicured landscape provides overlooking views of the Delaware River. Grey wrote the majority of his novels including his most popular “Riders of the Purple Sage” either in his writing studio or in a private bungalow on the property.
The family moved to Altadena, California in 1918 to give his works a shot on the big screen. The Pennsylvania home was later sold and operated as an inn for 25 years. In 1973, the National Park Service acquired it and transformed it into the museum it is today.
Come Back to French Manor Inn and Spa
After a day of history lessons, you’ll be ready to unwind in the stillness of the mountains. Book Le Effleurage massage and combine a soothing Swedish massage with a deep muscular technique. Unwind in our saltwater pool and then indulge in a gourmet dinner at our elegant dining room. End your night in the comforts of the San Remo room and relish in our luxurious accommodations. Check our availability today!
