The Gibson House is an 1859 brownstone that embodies the word "Victorian." Forget you've ever heard the phrase "less is more" -- the ornate furnishings and abundant accessories permit a compelling look at the domestic life of a socially prominent family in the then-new Back Bay neighborhood. You'll see decorations of all kinds, including family photos and portraits, petrified-wood hat racks, a sequined red-velvet pagoda for the cat, a Victrola, and an original icebox. Check ahead for the schedule of lectures and other special events.

Copyright: Excerpted from Frommer's Boston 2009, (c) 2008, Wiley Publishing, Inc.

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