Photos: Oscar Hammerstein II’s Iconic Writing Desk Unveiled At The Oscar Hammerstein Museum

The Oscar Hammerstein Museum and Theatre Education Center unveiled Oscar Hammerstein II’s iconic standing desk with a joyful celebration on Saturday, August 23. Check out photos of the event.

The desk, where Hammerstein penned lyrics for The Sound of Music, Oklahoma!, South Pacific and more, is now on public display for the first time ever.

Hammerstein family members, Bucks County officials, and cultural leaders were on hand for the unveiling, including Bucks County Commissioner Bob Harvie, Doylestown Township Supervisor Jennifer Herring, and Doylestown Borough Mayor Noni West. Citations were presented from Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick and Senator Steve Santarsiero, honoring the desk’s arrival at Highland Farm.

“This desk makes the house,” said Will Hammerstein, Oscar’s grandson. “If you did not have this desk, it would be a tragedy. If you had this desk and the house was nothing but bare walls, that would be great. This is truly, truly a great day.”

Tours featuring the desk are available Fridays through Mondays and must be reserved in advance at hammersteinmuseum.org/tourinfo.

Photo Credit: Joel Nace