A visit to Linden Place is to experience two centuries of American history in one place. Long before it appeared in the movie The Great Gatsby, this exceptional example of Federal architecture was the dramatic stage for one family’s multi-generational journey from the dark days of the slave trade through the boom times of the Industrial Age. Since 1810, its owners faced reversals of fortune, praise and scandal, disgrace and redemption. Beyond being the seafarers responsible for Bristol’s initial prosperity and later financial decline, they ended up captaining some of the country’s most dynamic industries. Along the way, they hosted presidents, married into a world-famous theatrical family, and collected a wide array of treasures, which are on display. Though it’s unfortunate Linden Place’s walls can’t talk, audio tours during museum hours provide a good account of one of the country’s most beautiful and fascinating house museums. Arrangements can also be made for docent-led tours.