Merion, PA., October 18, 2001-The Barnes Society, resource support group for The Barnes
Foundation, members and their guests will visit Hillwood, Marjorie Merriweather Post's
mansion in Washington on Friday, November 9, 2001.
The world-renowned Georgian-style mansion has just been re-opened on its 25 acres after three
years of extensive renovation and restoration. Hillwood is renowned for its 18th and 19th
century Russian and French decorative arts and its 90 masterpieces by Fabergé including 12
monogrammed Easter eggs, clocks and music boxes. Hillwood's gardens include a French parterre,
greenhouses, seasonal gardens and a Japanese-style garden. A three-course luncheon is included
at the Museum Garden Cafe.
About the Barnes Foundation
Dr. Albert Barnes established The Barnes Foundation as a school in 1922 to promote the
advancement of education and the appreciation of fine arts and horticulture. The Foundation
carries out its mission through teaching, research, and other programs related to its Art
Department and Arboretum, as well as through public access to the Gallery which houses its
main collection of paintings, sculpture, and other works of art.
Albert Barnes was born in a working class Philadelphia neighborhood in 1872 and attended C
entral High School. As a youngster, he attended camp revival meetings with his mother who was
a devout Methodist. It was at those religious retreats that Barnes developed an appreciation f
or African American culture, and the transformative power of art. This connection would
resurface in later years and have a lasting impact on the man and his work. In 1925 The
Foundation gallery/school opened to the public revealing what is now one of the finest
collections of art in the world.
About the Barnes Society
In December of 1999, The Board of Trustees of The Barnes Foundation voted the creation of the
Barnes Society, a non-profit organization. The Barnes Society is an organization whose sole
purpose is to raise funds for The Barnes Foundation for its operations and programs.
After the initial kick-off concert in May of 2001, the Barnes Society has grown to over
400 members with individuals enjoying membership benefits based on level. Some benefits
include discounts, volunteer opportunities, and a periodic newsletter with announcements
of special events, lectures, day trips, seminars, workshops, free admission, private tours
of the Arboretum, Behind the Scenes tours, and special receptions.
For more information on the Barnes Society and tour reservation information, Please contact
The Barnes Foundation Membership Department, 610-667-0290 ext. 2255 or visit
the events page.
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