Welcome to The Ballantine House.

Built in 1885, this mansion reveals many unseen stories of the skilled craftspeople who built the home, those who kept it running, and the Ballantine family who lived here. Contemporary art, historical objects, and new interactive experiences highlight the rich history and diversity of Newark’s many communities.

In late-19th-century Newark, craftspeople and industrial workers produced furniture, jewelry, leather goods, metal goods, beer, and many other products. World-class artists and musicians also have a vibrant history in this port city. Today, Newarkers still make beer, furniture, and other industrial products—and they also shine nationally and internationally in art, design, and entertainment.

As well as the historical rooms and two new introduction galleries, visitors will enjoy Made in Newark, an installation highlighting local artists and artisans, and the Listening Lounge, a music experience. Two new contemporary art installations and more are also on view:

What Has Been Happening at The Ballantine House?   

Welcome to The Ballantine House. In 1883, Jeannette and John Ballantine hired architect George Edward Harney to design this 27-room, three-story home for the family. Newark craftspeople built and decorated the House, completed in 1885, using complex techniques and the finest materials. Between 2021 and 2023, the Museum undertook a comprehensive, period-accurate project to restore the exterior and interior, engaging local contractors and conservators.

Installation view, The Ballantine House: Made in Newark, The Newark Museum of Art. Photo by Richard Goodbody 

Nellie Mae Brown, Pine Burr Quilt, 1951 Cotton, 87 ¼ x 65 ¾ in. (221.6 x 167 cm) Gift of the Honorable Lonna R. Hooks, 1995 95.39 

Terence Hammonds, Plates, 2025 Porcelaneous stoneware, transfer print, 1 ½ x 12 ½ in. (3.8 x 31.8 cm) Purchase 2025 Barbara Harrison Wescott Fund, Fanny H. Moore Fund, and Emma Fantone Endowment Fund 2025.12.1.1‑3 © Terence Hammonds. Photo by Richard Goodbody 

Terence Hammonds, Bowl, 2024 Porcelaneous stoneware, transfer print, 2 9/16 x 7 in. (6.5 x 17.8 cm) Purchase 2024 Barbara Harrison Wescott Fund 2024.18.2 © Terence Hammonds. Photo by Richard Goodbody 

George Edward Harney, The Ballantine House, 1885. Brick, sandstone. Purchase 1937 | 37.646.1‑27. Photo by Richard Goodbody 

Installation view, Noelle Lorraine Williams, Stay: The Black Women of 19th‑Century Newark, 2023, The Ballantine House, The Newark Museum of Art. Photo by Richard Goodbody © Noelle Lorraine Williams

Interior view, George Edward Harney, The Ballantine House Main Bedroom, 1885. Purchase 1937 | 37.646.16. The Newark Museum of Art, 2023. Photo by Richard Goodbody AND Installation view, Dimitri Wright, Black Couple in Bed Looking at TV, 1971. The Ballantine House, The Newark Museum of Art, 2023. Photo by Richard Goodbody