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MPF Celebrates Women of Mariemont in Annual Lecture Series By Gretchen Griffith “This lady is why The Barn is here.” In just a few words, Mayor Dan Policastro succinctly explained the significance of Jane McDonald’s efforts as he presented her with a key to the Village during the Women of Mariemont presentation at The Barn on October 3rd. Women have always been central to the story of Mariemont since its founder, Mary Emery, announced her plans to create a model town. And through years of dedication to Mrs. Emery’s vision, many Mariemont women have continued her legacy. On October 3, the Mariemont Preservation Foundation’s Millard F. Rogers Jr. Lecture Series honored past and present women of Mariemont for their contributions to the Village. “I look to each of these women as role models to myself and to future generations,” remarked Mary Beth York, MPF Trustee and event co-chair. Lynn Long, executive director of the Women’s Art Club Cultural Center, also co-chaired the event. The Millard F. Rogers Jr. Lecture Series honors the late Cincinnati Art Museum director and longest-serving trustee and president of the Mariemont Preservation Foundation. Millard’s many contributions included writing the definitive biography of Mary Emery and Mariemont’s successful nomination for National Historic Landmark status. Held at the historic Resthaven Barn, the evening’s activities included a reception showcasing the Foundation’s new exhibit displaying historical and contemporary women who have positively impacted the
Lecture attendees enjoy a reception prior to the October 3rd Women of Mariemont presentation. Village in a multitude of ways. MPF Trustee and Docent Cindy Chalfonte reacquainted those attending with Mary Emery’s life, philanthropy, and vision. Guest speaker and honoree Jane McDonald then shared her incredible experience of working with the Woman’s Art Club of Cincinnati (WACC) to rescue, renovate, and repurpose the Resthaven Barn into the flourishing community arts center it is today. As a result of the contributions of the women spotlighted in the exhibit, along with many others, we have a beautiful Village, thriving organizations, and a historical legacy for which we can all be proud. Millard F. Rogers Jr.’s widow, Nina Rogers, added her
praise for this year’s event and honorees. “I think [Millard] would be pleased that stories of Mariemont’s history continue to be told to its citizens old and new.” In case you missed it, the lecture is available online via YouTube; simply search for “Mariemont Preservation Foundation.” MPF selected the following women for recognition at the October 3 event:
Mariemont Women Who Kept Mary Emery’s Dream Alive—The Early Years • Isabella Hopkins: Mary Emery’s younger Cont'd on next page