Edward St. John Gorey (1925–2000) was a uniquely charming figure in twentieth‑century literature and illustration. A child prodigy, Gorey was drawing by 18 months and reading at three. He went on to earn a scholarship to Harvard, though he famously joked that his life “facts… are so few, tedious, and irrelevant”. Gorey produced over 100 small illustrated books—like The Gashlycrumb Tinies and The Doubtful Guest—renowned for their pen‑and‑ink Victorian and Edwardian scenes steeped in macabre surrealism. His dry, gothic humor and distinctive style earned him a Tony Award for costume design on Broadway’s Dracula and brought his signature look to PBS’s Mystery!.
Gorey was also a noted animal advocate. Upon his death in 2000, he left most of his estate to the Edward Gorey Charitable Trust, benefiting everything from cats and dogs to bats and insects.
For a more detailed biography of Edward Gorey, click on this link.
The Edward Gorey House (“Elephant House”) in Yarmouth Port, MA
In 1979, Gorey purchased a circa‑1820 sea captain’s home at 8 Strawberry Lane, on Cape Cod’s historic Captains’ Mile . He lived and worked in this quirky, cluttered house—said to be full of flea‑market finds, road‑side curios, and at least six cats—until his death in 2000.
Two years later, the Highland Street Foundation, alongside the Edward Gorey Charitable Trust, purchased the property and established it as a museum preserving his life, artwork, and philanthropic passions . Now known affectionately as “Elephant House,” it reflects Gorey’s creativity and his devotion to animal welfare through rotating exhibits and educational programs.
Visiting the House
• Address: 8 Strawberry Ln, Yarmouth Port, Massachusetts
• Season: Open mid‑April through December
• 2025 Hours & Admission (subject to change):
• Apr 10–Jul 6: Thu–Sat 11 am–4 pm; Sun 12–4 pm
• Jul 9–Oct 12: Wed–Sat 11–4; Sun 12–4
• Oct 17–Dec 28: Fri–Sat 11–4; Sun 12–4
• Adults: $10; Students/Seniors: $8; Kids 5–12: $4; under 5 free; select discounts available
Reservations are recommended, especially for larger groups. Door admission ends at 3:30 pm .
Why You Should Visit
• Step into Gorey’s world: Discover the distinctive atmosphere—his personal effects, curios, feline friends, even a poison‑ivy vine (now removed!) that once framed his living room window .
• Enjoy dynamic exhibits: Each year brings new displays featuring original art, manuscripts, and whimsical interactive programming.
• Celebrate a cause: Admission supports animal welfare and literacy, in homage to Gorey’s personal passions.
• Historic charm: The house itself echoes Cape Cod’s maritime past, part of a scenic stretch of early 19th‑century sea captain homes.
Tips for Your Visit
• Book ahead, especially on weekends and during the busy summer season.
• Combine with a stroll down Captains’ Mile for a taste of Cape Cod history .
• Check the museum calendar—special talks, book clubs, story hours, and community events make each visit unique.
• Support where it counts: From membership and donations to sponsoring exhibits, your visit helps sustain the museum’s mission.
In Closing
The Edward Gorey House is more than a museum—it’s a portal into the playful yet unsettlingly intriguing universe of a literary and artistic original. Whether you’re a die‑hard “Goreyphile” or discovering his work for the first time, a journey to Yarmouth Port offers a compelling look at a man who turned macabre whimsy into art and lived among the things he loved. Now, each ticket supports animal welfare, literacy, and the enduring legacy of this one‑of‑a‑kind creator.
Plan your visit and step into the mysterious charm of Elephant House—unlike any home you’ve seen before.
