colt-1
Colt, a man of many talents, was a painter, architect, and master craftsman who made a lasting impression on the artistic heritage of New Hope. His legacy endures through his masterfully built “Little English Village” in the Phillips’ Mill Historic District, where he designed and constructed Tudor and Gothic-style cottages, a grand home, and workshops that reflected his deep appreciation for European architecture and the Arts and Crafts movement.
Eleanor Miller, founder and vice president of the New Hope Colony Foundation for the Arts, who lives in what was once Colt’s Gothic studio, passionately described the exhibition and its significance. “It is a magical place,” Miller said, speaking of the village and the impact of Colt’s artistic vision.
The exhibit offered a comprehensive view of Colt’s diverse talents. It featured not only his paintings but also his finely crafted furniture, wrought iron gates, and brass- and copper-pounded seats, which were created in his Gothic shops. Photographs of the village, taken by an artistically skilled photographer, were prominently displayed, offering visitors a glimpse into the serene beauty of Colt’s architectural masterpiece. In addition, rare blueprints and sketches of his designs provided further insight into his meticulous planning and attention to detail.
Among the most celebrated pieces in the exhibit was “Haystack,” a painting loaned by a private collector, and a large-scale Walter Schofield painting depicting the area where Colt and his wife, Jane, lived on their houseboat before they settled in the village. The exhibit also highlighted Colt’s deep connection to the Arts and Crafts movement, showcasing his architectural designs and concrete structures, which echoed the influence of Henry Mercer. In a special section, original tools and materials from Colt’s workshops were displayed, offering a tangible connection to his craftsmanship and ingenuity.
Miller’s personal connection to Colt’s legacy extends beyond the exhibit. She and her family have been instrumental in preserving and restoring the historic village, with plans to acquire more of the original properties. “In the near future, we are going to bring the whole original footprint of the colony back, and it’s going to be a destination for people all over the world to come and enjoy for the rest of their lives,” she shared. Future restoration efforts include the recreation of Colt’s garden, which once featured carefully landscaped pathways, reflecting pools, and intricately designed stonework.
Visitors to the exhibit also had the opportunity to tour Miller’s home, which was originally Colt’s studio. “When people walk through this village and into my house, they go, ‘Wow!’” Miller recounted. The studio’s stunning Gothic window, massive stone fireplace, and original wooden beams, imported from an old English abbey, left visitors in awe. The exhibit also included a guided walking tour, where experts on Colt’s work detailed the history and significance of each structure in the village.
The success of “Morgan Colt Rediscovered” has sparked a renewed interest in Colt’s contributions to the New Hope art colony. Many attendees expressed their desire to support the foundation’s efforts in preserving the village and restoring it to its former glory. “This exhibit has brought a lot of people to us that want to help us in raising money and a lot of interest in the community to help us make this happen,” Miller said. Additionally, plans for an annual festival dedicated to Colt and the Arts and Crafts movement are in discussion, with hopes of attracting artists, historians, and preservationists from around the world.
Though Colt’s life was tragically cut short at the age of 49, his vision and craftsmanship continue to inspire. Thanks to the efforts of Miller and the New Hope Colony Foundation, his “Little English Village” remains a testament to his artistry. As preservation efforts continue, the hope is that this charming enclave will once again become a thriving hub for artists and visitors, ensuring that Colt’s legacy is never forgotten. With growing interest and support, the vision for the village as a cultural and historical landmark is steadily becoming a reality.
For more information about the New Hope Colony Foundation for the Arts, visit www.newhopecolony.org.