ABOUT DUNHAM
TAVERN MUSEUM & GARDENS

Once a stagecoach stop on the Buffalo-Cleveland-Detroit post road, the 1824 home of Rufus and Jane Pratt Dunham is the oldest building still standing on its original site in the city of Cleveland. In stark contrast to the cityscape that surrounds it, Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens offers a glimpse of history and insight into the lifestyles of early Ohio settlers and travelers. Amazingly, the structure has persisted as a witness to nearly 200 years of history and change on Euclid Avenue. Stagecoach stops to car dealerships, Millionaire’s Row to urban renewal . . . Dunham has remained.  Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens—an inclusive place that inspires and enriches lives through history, nature, and community.

History never rests but is retold by each generation. The Dunham Tavern has witnessed Cleveland’s history and amazingly survived for almost two centuries. As we enter our third century, Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens is a place where one may explore and celebrate our community’s growth and development. While we honor the Dunhams of “pioneer” days, we also celebrate each successive generation right up to today that made new lives in Cleveland. We strive to foster a renewed appreciation of nature and our landscape — experienced at our outdoor events or simply by a casual stroll and reflection on the Heritage Trail. Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens is a community anchor that preserves history while creating a vital gathering space that continues to inspire and celebrate a changing museum for a resilient neighborhood.

  • The Master Plan is intended to support the Museum’s Mission and Vision and to guide the future development of its grounds and buildings.

  • Donate:
    Your tax-deductive contribution to the Museum helps protect Cleveland’s cultural heritage and ensures the MidTown community will have a public gathering place that is accessible to all.

    Membership:
    Memberships provide essential operating funds that preserve Dunham and its collections, care for our gardens and greenspace, and allow us to provide invaluable educational programming.

    Volunteer:
    Volunteers are an integral part of Dunham Tavern Museum & Gardens! We are always looking for volunteers to serve as docents, tend the gardens and grounds, and help with special events.

Photo: Jax Stumpes