LENOX, MA. – Historian, retired Professor of Art and former Board Member, Julie Agar will highlight Tiffany’s career and her family’s association with Tiffany during her presentation at Ventfort Hall on Saturday, September 10 at 3:30 pm. A tea will follow her presentation.

She will trace the history and development of Tiffany’s jewelry store from its founding in 1837 as a stationary and notions store. Emphasis will be placed on the expansion of selling Bohemian glass, porcelain, stained glass and jewelry of a quality and beauty far above any of its competition. It established its reputation as the nations undisputed first class jewelry merchant by 1848.

Agar is the great, great grandniece of Charles T. Cook who became assistant secretary in 1868 and president in 1902. He started with the company at age 14. Her family was a major stock holder until the 1930s. She will share some of the family stories about Tiffany.

As the golden boy of America’s Gilded Age, Tiffany orchestrated glass, color and light into memorable visual symphonies. Many people know his stained glass work but are unaware that he created mosaics, vases, jewelry, metal work and desk sets. In addition he was a highly creative interior designer and known for designing the interior of Marl Twain’s home in Hartford, CT.

Agar is a retired professor of art and museum education at Carlow University, Pittsburgh, PA and a former board member of Ventfort Hall.

Tickets are $30 for members and with advance reservation; $35 day of; $22 for students 22 and under. Reservations are required as seats are limited. Walk-ins accommodated as space allows. For reservations call us at (413) 637-3206. Please note that all tickets are nonrefundable and non-exchangeable. Masks are required. The historical mansion is located at 104 Walker Street in Lenox.

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places and designated by the Massachusetts Cultural Council as an important partner of the Lenox Cultural District, one of the five such Berkshire County districts, Ventfort Hall Mansion and Gilded Age Museum was built in 1893 for George and Sarah Morgan, the sister of legendary financier J. Pierpont Morgan.

Self-guided tours of the historic mansion are offered daily, as well as Tea & Talks, such exhibitions as the Bellefontaine Collection, concerts, theater and other programs. This elegant Jacobean-Revival Berkshire “cottage” is open to the public year-round and is available for private rental.  Ventfort Hall, also an Official Project of Save America’s Treasures program sponsored by The White House, has undergone substantial restoration, which continues.