Someone Lived Here

Someone Lived Here


Henry Davis Sleeper's Beauport

June 28, 2021

In the second episode of season 3, Kendra brings you to Beauport, the Sleeper-McCann House in Gloucester, Massachusetts. Henry Davis Sleeper was one of the first professional interior designers in the US. His work used salvaged material, color, and light to create spaces overflowing with personality. Beauport, built in 1907, became a portfolio of his work, with 5 dining rooms designed to impress and entertain. Barely anything has changed in this time capsule of his work.


Henry Davis Sleeper was a gay man with a close circle of friends and neighbors. In this episode, we go through the rooms in his home and tell his story: from his early relationship with Guy Whetmore Caryll, to his friendship with A. Piatt Andrew, and a mouse encounter with Isabella Stewart Gardner. Henry Davis Sleeper lived from 1878 to 1934.


You can see archival photos and referenced items at https://someonelivedhere.com/beauport/



Thank you to Historic New England, Site Manager Martha Van Koevering, and PR Officer Susanna Crampton. You can book tour tickets to see Beauport in person.


The new shop: https://someonelivedhere.com/shop/


The Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpgUM6AudvZ-WSlHKOKUWVQ