A few years after their return from studying and training in Munich, Germany, Adams and Steele found themselves together again in Metamora, Indiana. They spent roughly nine weeks painting together, capturing the beautiful countryside of Indiana when they decided to take an exploratory trip to Brookville. They were in awe of the rolling hills, rushing rivers, and colorful valleys tucked away in the small town.

In 1897, Adams and Steele purchased a rambling house in Brookville, with the intent of creating studios and living quarters for themselves and their respective families. Mary Steele recommended that the house be named the Hermitage. On October 1, 1898, Adams married Winifred Brady and moved to the Hermitage. Two years later, the Adams had their first child, John Alban Adams. Their second and third children, Edward Wolf and Robert Brady Adams, along with Alban would grow up at the Hermitage. In 1899, Mary Steele became ill and passed away. Stricken with grief, T.C. Steele eventually sold his interest in the Hermitage to Adams in 1907. He then left the Hermitage to set up a studio in Brown County. Mrs. Adams, who was also an accomplished artist, took over Mr. Steele’s studio after his departure.

Photos of the Hermitage (Then vs. Now)
Courtesy of Indianapolis Museum of Art J. Ottis Adams Research Collection (M010)(top) and http://www.bbonline.com/united-states/indiana/brookville/hermitage.html (bottom)

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