Picture Marjorie Merriweather Post’s breakfast nook at Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens. Imagine a magnificent chandelier from the Catherine Palace hanging there. This isn’t just any breakfast nook. It’s a testament to a life lived with extraordinary elegance and passion.
Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens is more than just a museum. It’s a captivating story. It’s the legacy of Marjorie Merriweather Post a remarkable woman. She was a businesswoman socialite philanthropist and avid collector. She transformed this Georgian Colonial estate into a treasure trove. Hillwood boasts an unparalleled collection of Russian imperial art. Two Fabergé eggs are among the highlights.
Post’s connection to Russia runs deeper than just collecting. Her third husband Joseph E Davies served as the US ambassador to the Soviet Union. During this time Post acquired many of the estate’s Russian treasures. She expertly navigated the political landscape. She amassed a collection unmatched outside Russia.
Beyond the art Hillwood’s gardens are equally stunning. They were meticulously designed over years. Willard Gebhart’s original landscape design from the 1920s was carefully preserved. Post added her own touches. The rose garden is a particular highlight. It’s a peaceful spot where Post’s ashes are interred. A pink granite monument marks her final resting place. Its inscription reads “All my hopes rest in me”. This emphasizes her personal connection to the estate.
From the formal French parterre to the serene Japanese garden. Each space is a reflection of Post’s refined taste. Even the motor court is noteworthy. A statue of Eros presides over it. It represents the love and fertility that flourished at Hillwood. It also symbolizes Post’s generous spirit. She opened Hillwood to Vietnam veterans for tea and entertainment. She provided respite and joy during a time of healing.
Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens is much more than a museum. It’s a living testament to a remarkable woman’s life. Her legacy endures in the art the gardens and the stories they tell. A visit to Hillwood is a journey. It’s a journey through history art and a life lived with exceptional grace.