National Sporting Library & Museum Fall Newsletter 2018

NATIONAL SPORTING LIBRARY & MUSEUM Preserving, promoting, and sharing the literature, art, and culture of equestrian, angling, and field sports Newsletter: Number 126, Fall 2018

On Fly in the Salt:

American Saltwater Fly Fishing from the Surf to the Flats OPEN THROUGH MARCH 3, 2019

Exhibition panels from On Fly in the Salt: American Saltwater Fly Fishing from the Surf to the Flats on loan from the American Museum of Fly Fishing.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Manuel H. Johnson

Corporate Benefactor

Chairman

Jacqueline B. Mars Vice Chairman

Claire Reid Treasurer

Cathy M. Brentzel Secretary

Timothy J. Greenan Assistant Secretary

Mimi Abel Smith Joseph E. Aulisi Bradley J. Bondi B. Tim Brookshire Donald G. Calder Natalie M. Epstein Helen K. Groves James I. Harrison, III Ineke D. Kreeger Lawrence E. Kurzius Clarke Ohrstrom Jacqueline L. Ohrstrom Robin C. Parsky Lorian Peralta-Ramos F. Turner Reuter, Jr. Advisory Directors Dorothy Lee Pierre Manigault Catherine C. Murdock

Corporate Conservator

Corporate Patron

Corporate Guardian

STAFF John Connolly George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Head Librarian

Lauren Kraut Collections Manager

Erica Libhart Mars Technical Services Librarian

Frances Monroe Membership & Events Manager

Reid O’Connor

Corporate Associate

Membership & Events Assistant

Anne Marie Paquette Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator

Aaron Patten Facilities Manager

Claudia Pfeiffer George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art

Jody West Marketing Manager

national sporting library & museum newsletter ISSN 1068-2007 Number 126, Fall 2018 Published quarterly by the National Sporting Library & Museum

PO Box 1335 Middleburg, VA 20118 540-687-6542 (T) 540-446-0071 (F) NationalSporting.org

The National Sporting Library & Museum wishes to thank and recognize our corporate and individual members whose annual donations were received between October 1, 2017 and September 30, 2018. These contributions form the foundation of financial support for the NSLM’s operations. We are grateful for gifts at all levels and thank our many donors and friends.

For more information about membership benefits and corporate support, please contact Frances Monroe at 540-687-6542 ext. 26 or FMonroe@NationalSporting.org.

Leadership Circle Mrs. Frances Massey Dulaney

Benefactor Circle

Mrs. William Abel Smith Amb. and Mrs. Thomas H. Anderson, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Joseph E. Aulisi Mr. and Mrs. Bradley J. Bondi Ms. Cathy M. Brentzel Mr. and Mrs. B. Tim Brookshire Mr. and Mrs. Donald G. Calder Mr. and Mrs. Guy O. Dove Mr. and Mrs. Glenn Epstein Mrs. Dielle Fleischmann Dr. and Mrs. Timothy J. Greenan Mrs. Helen K. Groves Mr. and Mrs. Sydney D. Hall Mr. and Mrs. James I. Harrison, III Dr. and Mrs. Manuel H. Johnson Peter and Ineke Kreeger Mr. and Mrs. Lawrence Kurzius Mrs. Jacqueline B. Mars Mr. and Mrs. Clarke Ohrstrom Mrs. George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Robin Parsky Mrs. Lorian Peralta-Ramos Ms. Claire Reid Mr. and Mrs. F. Turner Reuter, Jr. Bennett and Shannon Stitchman

Conservator Circle

Mr. and Mrs. Ben F. Bailey, III Mr. and Mrs. Zohar Ben-Dov Mr. and Mrs. Donald Brennan Mr. and Mrs. Childs F. Burden Mr. and Mrs. Greg Fazakerley Mr. and Mrs. Paul Doug Fout Daniel and Michela Gorham Mrs. Hermen Greenberg Ginnie and Wayne Johnson Mr. and Mrs. Roger H. W. Kirby Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Mullan Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Ohrstrom Mr. and Mrs. Mark J. Ohrstrom Ms. Jean Perin Ms. Nicole H. Perry and Mr. Andrew T.C. Stifler Mr. William G. Prime Mrs. Felicia Warburg Rogan Mr. and Mrs. Calvin Schmidt Mr. and Mrs. Guy Snowden

Mr. and Mrs. William W. Stahl, Jr. Mr. T. Garrick Steele Harriet and Warren Stephens Mr. and Mrs. Oakleigh Thorne Ms. Viviane M. Warren Tony and Lynne Zande

Patron Circle

Ms. Lisa Campbell Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carroll Hugh Chisholm and Daisy Prince Mr. and Mrs. P. Hamilton Clark, III Ms. Susan Clarke Mr. and Mrs. John Kent Cooke Mr. and Mrs. David B. Ford Mr. and Mrs. Paul Hasse Mr. Albert B. Head Mr. Anthony J. Horan and Ms. Susan Trotter Mr. and Mrs. Alexander Jeffries Gillian Johnston Mr. and Mrs. Douglas Kemmerer Mr. and Mrs. Joel A. Kobert Mr. Douglas H. Lees, III Mr. Bryce M. Lingo Mrs. Alexander Mackay-Smith Mr. and Mrs. Mike Massie Mr. and Mrs. James P. Mills, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Michael Morency Ms. Mary C. Morgan and Mr. Michael Neish Ms. Catherine C. Murdock Mr. and Mrs. Ernest M. Oare The Hon. Trevor Potter and Mr. Dana Scott Westring Mr. and Mrs. Frederick H. Prince Dr. and Mrs. Jerold J. Principato Mrs. Grace Ritzenberg Mr. and Mrs. David Roux Mr. and Mrs. S. Bruce Smart, Jr. Mrs. Robert H. Smith Mr. and Mrs. John Sodolski Ms. Laura W. Van Roijen Mr. John Patrick White, Esq.

Guardian Level

Mrs. Charles C. Abeles Ms. Anne H. Adams Mr. and Mrs. Christopher Ambrose Mrs. Rose Marie Bogley Mr. and Mrs. George Miller Chester, Jr.

Mr. and Mrs. J. Bradley Davis Ms. Anne Engen Mr. and Mrs. William G. Fendley, III Mary Ann Ghadban Mr. Gregory William Gingery John and Marlou Gregory Mrs. Penny Hallman Mr. Bruce Harrison Mr. James L. Hatcher, Jr. Leslie Hazel Ms. Carol Holden Virginia Jenkins Rob and Maggie Johnston Mr. and Mrs. Charles G. Mackall, Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles T. Matheson Perry and Melanie Mathewes Mrs. Gwynne G. McDevitt Ms. Anne P. McDowell Mrs. Betsy B. Mead Mr. and Mrs. Chips Page Mr. and Mrs. Gayden Parker Greg Pellegrino Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Penkhus Mr. and Mrs. Richard Powers Penelope Rogerson Dr. and Mrs. William Russell Mrs. Carolyn Saffer Mr. and Mrs. Edmund S. Twining, III Ms. Martha A. Wolfe and Mr. William Shabb Mr. and Mrs. C. Martin Wood, III Louisa Woodville and Nigel Ogilvie Mr. and Mrs. Rene R. Woolcott

Associate Level

Mr. and Mrs. Howard Armfield Mrs. Dianne Beal and Mr. Paul Blue Mr. and Mrs. Perry J. Bolton Mr. Peter Cook Mr. William Cooper Mr. and Mrs. John B. Denegre Elizabeth and Rommel Dunning Cricket Goodall Richard and Dulcy Hooper Mary Mochary Mr. and Mrs. Edmund T. Mudge, IV Ms. Mary B. Schwab Dr. Robert Varrin Ms. Nancy Hamill Winter

On Fly in the Salt:

American Saltwater Fly Fishing from the Surf to the Flats ON VIEW THROUGH MARCH 3, 2019

by Claudia Pfeiffer

A

George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art

s the repository for the world’s largest angling collection, AMFF [American Museum of Fly Fishing] is proud to trace the evolution of American saltwater fly fishing with this landmark exhibit – the first of its kind. Enjoy a curated journey through time, filled with the people, places, and innovations that have made saltwater fly fishing

one of the fastest-growing sectors of the exciting and dynamic angling industry. —Sarah Foster, Executive Director, American Museum of Fly Fishing.

The highly anticipated exhibition, On Fly in the Salt: American Saltwater Fly Fishing from the Surf to the Flats, presents the rich history of a facet of fly 4

efforts. An interactive component presents fiveminute video clips of eight pioneers of saltwater fly fishing. Poignantly, among them are Lefty Kreh and Bill Curtis, who passed away since their interviews were recorded.

fishing that is largely underexplored. Saltwater fly fishing is regarded as a relatively recent sport beginning in the 1950s, but the exhibition fleshes out a timeline with origins in the first written reference to saltwater trout fly fishing in the United States in the West Florida Colony in 1764. A variety of ephemera – books, rods, reels, correspondence, flies, and black and white and color photographs – are beautifully laid out in expansive wall-mounted displays along with a selection of artwork by 20th century artists such as Arthur Shilstone, Stanley Meltzhoff, Mike Stidham, and Al Barnes.

The installation shows how developments in transportation and equipment led to the pursuit of a multitude of saltwater fish including sailfish, bonefish, tarpon, permit, wahoo, dolphin fish, redfish, and striped bass, in a variety of settings, from the flats to the open ocean.

On view through March 3, 2019 in five second-floor galleries of the Museum, the NSLM is pleased to be the first venue for the exhibition which has been in development for seven years and was organized by the American Museum of Fly Fishing in Manchester, Vermont.

On Fly in the Salt will also travel to the Yale Peabody Museum of Natural History, New Haven, Connecticut, and the Florida Keys History and Discovery Center, Key Largo, Florida.

The exhibition highlights pioneering, contemporary, and record setting men and women in the sport, among them Lefty Kreh and Joan Wulff. Also on display are 16 exquisite, large saltwater fly examples that were designed to meet the challenges of catching a variety of fish species.

A display of record-setting catches on fly includes a life-size cutout of the largest catch to-date, a 136-lb.

Pacific sailfish taken in 1965 by Stu Apte.

Additionally explored are the organization of competitions, such as the annual Tarpon Tournament, the development of organizations including the Islamorada Club, and conservation

On Fly in the Salt: American Saltwater Fly Fishing from the Surf to the Flats is generously sponsored at the National Sporting Library & Museum by Tim and Jocelyn Greenan.

Coffee with theCurator

Coffee with the Curator November 24, 2018 | 10:00 - 11:30 am

Left: Big Striper by Luther Hall, watercolor, 30 ¾ x 22 ¾ inches, Collection of American Museum of Fly Fishing, 2018.034.001 Top: A display of breakthrough saltwater fly designs.

Above Right: The Book of Tarpon by A.W. Dimock, 1911, Outing Publishing Company, Collection of American Museum of Fly Fishing, 1995.030.01

Join us for a coffee reception and special tour of the exhibition with Claudia Pfeiffer, NSLM George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art.

Admission: $5 | Free to NSLM members

RSVP to Anne Marie Paquette at APaquette@NationalSporting.org

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MUSEUM NEWS

RECENT ACQUISITION: SOUTHERN PLANTATION QUAIL SHOOTING SCENE

BY OGDEN MINTON PLEISSNER

by Claudia Pfeiffer

T

George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art

he National Sporting Library & Museum is pleased to announce an exciting addition to its permanent collection. The recent donation from a private collector titled Covey Rise, 1960, is a watercolor by prominent American

sporting artist Ogden Minton Pleissner (1905-1983).

The Southern plantation quail shooting scene was painted at Tallassee Plantation near Albany, Georgia, as indicated by the artist in one of two letters that accompany the donation. The correspondence was written between Andre W. Brewster, a previous owner of the work, inquiring of Pleissner as to whether the subject was painted at Okeetee Club in South Carolina.

He responded, “I’m sorry it is not on Oketee [sic], but as the quail country all through the south is very similar it could very well have been there. I hope this will not spoil your enjoyment of the painting.”

The watercolor features a covey of quail on the rise with two pointers, two guns in the foreground, and a pine row in the distance. To the right Above: Ogden Minton Pleissner (American, 1905 1983) The Covey Rise, 1960 watercolor on paper, sight size 16 ¾ x 28 inches Gift of Private Collection, 2018 Far left: Letter from Andre W. Brewster to Mr. Ogden Pleissner, June 7, 1982, NSLM Curatorial files Left: Letter from Ogden M. Pleissner to Mr. Andre W. Brewster, June 11, 1982, NSLM Curatorial files

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MUSEUM NEWS a driver and traditional mule wagon are featured.

Pleissner, an avid outdoorsman, began wingshooting in the 1930s, gaining him access to sporting camps, preserves, plantations, and country estates internationally. He became known for his painterly and authentic scenes, such as this example.

in the art collection. In 2016, the NSLM’s Board of Directors approved an Art Collecting Plan as an expansion of its Collections Management Policy.

The additional guidelines were created to generate awareness for subjects that fall within the scope of the organization’s mission but are currently underrepresented, or not represented in the art collection such as fly fishing, polo, wingshooting, coaching, still-lifes, and outdoor sculpture.

This addition to NSLM’s collections is significant, not only as a representative work by Pleissner, but as a subject that is greatly underrepresented

Recent acquisition: Burrland Road, Orange County Hounds by Booth Malone

by Lauren Kraut

A

Collections Manager

recent acquisition by the National Sporting Library & Museum may look familiar to some of our local visitors. Generously donated by Viviane M. Warren, Burrland Road, Orange County Hounds by Booth Malone (American, b. 1950) is a vibrant representation of Orange County Hounds Huntsman Stephen “Reg” Spreadborough. The huntsman trots into the foreground surrounded by his pack of hounds keeping pace.

Artist Booth Malone, known for his equestrian and sporting paintings, has been an active member of the American Academy of Equine Arts (AAEA) since 1994 and President of the Board of Directors since 2016.

Earlier this year, Burrland Road, Orange County Hounds was part of AAEA’s juried exhibition held at Morven Park The Year of the Hound (May 27-June 26, 2018), which featured representations from each of the 25 Virginia hunts.

Booth Malone (American, b. 1950) Burrland Road, Orange County Hounds, 2017/2018, oil on linen, 35 ½ x 29 ½ inches, Gift of Viviane M. Warren, 2018

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MUSEUM NEWS

New Acquisitions from the Estate of Milton Ritzenberg

by Lauren Kraut

Collections Manager

T

he National Sporting Library & Museum is pleased to share an extremely generous donation from the estate of Milton Riztenberg of nine bronzes by various artists, a painting by MarieRosalie “Rosa” Bonheur, and The Man O’ War Aqueduct trophy, won by Wise Ship in 1961.

to observe and work independently in such places, she was given special permission to wear masculine attire, something she continued for the rest of her life. Studies like this give us insight into an artist’s process. Bonheur completed several lion paintings; it will be interesting to see if we can find one associated with our study.

The bronzes are a significant addition to the NSLM’s growing sculpture collection. Included in this are Portuguese Rejoneadores, a pair, and Percherons: Messoline and her Foal by Herbert Haseltine (American, 1877-1962); Goat and Kid

by Emmanuel Fremiet (French, 1824-1910); Standing Bear and Wolf in Snare by Antoine-Louis Barye (French, 1795-1875); Aberdeen Angus Bull by Isidore Bonheur (French, 1827-1901); Rooster, Snails, and Pumpkin by Ferdinand Pautrot (French, 1832-1874); and Circus Horse by Walter Winans (American, 18521920). These are well-known and respected animalièr artists and help fill a gap in the art collection for this time period.

The Man O’ War Aqueduct trophy was created in 1773 and was first awarded as the Doncaster Cup in 1775. Made of gilded silver, the trophy is ornate, and detailed with acanthus leaves, snake skin handles, and garland ornamentation. The finial is of a winged Victory holding a wreath and shield with a cherub at her feet. At 245 years old, it is one of the oldest objects in our collection.

The Man O’ War Stakes, begun in 1959, was run at New York’s Aqueduct Racetrack in 1961. Wise Ship, owned by Milton Ritzenberg, not only won the race, but set a new record running 1 5/8 miles (13 furlongs) in 2:14. In 2017, Mrs. Grace Ritzenberg donated a Jean Eleanor Bowman painting of Wise Ship, painted in 1962, the year after he won at Aqueduct. It is fitting, then, that the trophy and painting should be reunited at the NSLM.

The painting by Rosa Bonheur (French, 1822-1899) is a study of three perspectives of a lion’s head along with paws and an eye. Bonheur was a Realist painter, also an animalière, and part of a successful family of artists. She was known for the anatomical accuracy and preciseness of her subjects, and attending animal markets, horse fairs, and stockyards. In order

We are grateful for these new additions into the permanent collection.

Above: The Man O’War Aqueduct trophy, gilt silver trophy on wood base, 22 x 12 3/4 inches, Gift from the Estate of Milton Ritzenberg, 2018 Far Left: Marie-Rosalie “Rosa” Bonheur (French, 1822-1899) Lion Studies, oil on canvas, frame size 13 ¼ x 16 ½ x 1 ¾ inches Gift from the Estate of Milton Ritzenberg, 2018 Left: Ferdinand Pautrot (French, 1832-1874) Rooster, Snails, and Pumpkin, bronze, 6 ½ x 3 ¾ inches, Gift from the Estate of Milton Ritzenberg, 2018

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LIBRARY NEWS

LIBRARY COMPLETES RARE BOOKS PROJECT

by John Connolly

O

George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Head Librarian

ver the past 18 months, our librarians have been working hard on reprocessing the collections in the F. Ambrose Clark Rare Book Room. This project was completed in September, meaning that the entirety of NSLM’s book collections are now findable in the Library’s online catalog.

conservators to restore the volumes over the next several years.

The project also included physical improvements in the Rare Book Room, including shelving repair, repainting, and installation of vinyl lettering.

The Library will now begin the final phase of its collections maintenance program: the cataloging of the periodicals collection. This project will require a complete reorganization of the Library’s Lower Level Reading Room and meticulous cataloging of all the Library’s bound and unbound periodical holdings.

The project is estimated to take a year to complete.

During the project, every volume in the Rare Book Room was removed, cataloged, barcoded, and assessed for damage. Over 200 volumes were identified as needing repair, and these books will be added to the Library’s Book Adoption Program to fund the repairs. NSLM will work with rare book

NSLM FELLOW PUBLISHES HIS BOOK

by Erica Libhart

N

Mars Technical Services Librarian

SLM is pleased to announce that Dr. Charles Caramello, a John H. Daniels Fellow, has recently had his new book published by Xenophon Press. Eighteenth Century Equitation: “Military Equitation; A Method of Breaking Horses and Teaching Soldiers to Ride” by The Earl of Pembroke & “A Treatise on Military Equitation” by William Tyndale, provides facsimile copies of two classic English manuals on military horsemanship from the late 1700s, and enhances them with notes and commentary by Dr. Caramello.

accessed at any time in the Library’s Main Reading Room without an appointment.

Dr. Caramello is a Professor of English, and the Senior Advisor for Graduate Education at The University of Maryland. He was accepted as a John H. Daniels Fellow for 2017 and conducted his research using several editions of Pembroke’s and Tyndale’s works in the NSLM’s collections. His introduction and notes serve to set each piece in its historical context and to assist the modern-day reader in connecting with 18th century writing. Additionally, the included facsimile copies of these works make them easily available to the general public. The originals are housed in the F. Ambrose Clark Rare Book Room and require an appointment to view, but this new book may be

Dr. Caramello has returned as a John H. Daniels Fellow for 2018 and is currently completing a book-in-progress, Horsemen, Horse Soldiers, and Grand Illusions. He is conducting research in the NSLM archives for a projected book on equitation between the two world wars.

According to Dr. Caramello’s introduction, “[e]questrian readers of Pembroke and Tyndale will engage with two eminently sensible military horsemen, learn from two seasoned trainers of horses and riders, and, if lucky, discover something new and unexpected about equestrian sport.”

Photo above: Charles Carmello holds his recently published book, Eighteenth Century Equitation: “Military Equitation; A Method of Breaking Horses and Teaching Soldiers to Ride” by The Earl of Pembroke & “A Treatise on Military Equitation” by William Tyndale with notes and commentary by Charles Caramello (2018).

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LIBRARY NEWS

NSLM RECEIVES MACVEAGH PHOTOGRAPH DONATION

by John Connolly

George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Head Librarian

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n September, the Library received a tremendous donation – a lifetime collection of equestrian photographs. The Patricia W. MacVeagh Photo Collection spans from 1939 to 2014. MacVeagh photographed horse shows and races from St. Louis, Missouri to Virginia.

The collection is remarkable in several ways, first, because of its size.

Over 17,000 images will be added to NSLM’s collection.

Second, the donors are also giving NSLM the rights to the photographs, making it possible for us to use, reproduce, and print the photos without seeking additional permissions.

Third, Patricia’s daughter Martha has comprehensively documented the collection: horse names, rider names, and locations have all been compiled into a massive spreadsheet that can be converted into an archival finding aid. She also had the entire collection digitized, making it possible for NSLM to host the photographs online in the future. Finally, the family is making a monetary contribution of $5,000 to help maintain the collection. NSLM is extremely grateful for this generous donation.

Born June 16, 1929, as Patricia Kathryn Williams, MacVeagh graduated high school in 1947, and attended Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, where she graduated with a degree in Spanish in 1951. She became a stewardess for Pan American Airlines on South American flights. After two years working on the airline, she returned to St. Louis and married Charles “Pete” MacVeagh in 1956.

The MacVeaghs had two children, Charles “Chip” MacVeagh, and Martha Williams MacVeagh.

Their family moved to the Washington, DC area in July 1976, where they boarded horses at Southdown Farm in Great Falls. Patricia died from pancreatic cancer on April 28, 2014. She was a charter member of Vienna Photographic Society (Vienna, VA) and served in various volunteer roles and was active in the photo competitions of the Society. Patricia took regular riding lessons throughout life; her last riding lesson was in January 2014, four months before her death.

Above: Patricia Williams MacVeagh photographed in 1943. MacVeagh was a lifelong equestrian and photographer; her photograph collection has been donated to NSLM. Photograph by J. Wayman Williams, used with permission.

Right: Patricia Williams MacVeagh photographed in 1941.

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RECENT EVENTS

POLO LUNCHEON GOES ON DESPITE MOTHER NATURE AN

Membership & Events Assistant

W

2018 N

SLM Reagan narrated the match while guests cheered on all sides. Players from each team were presented with gifts from sponsors Stick & Ball, Mystique Jewelers, and Journeymen Saddlers.

hile the weather prevented players from taking to the arena at the 2018 Polo Classic, it did not dampen the enthusiasm of those who attended the luncheon on Sunday, September 9. Players, sponsors, and Pavilion guests braved the rain to come out in support of the National Sporting Library & Museum’s sole fundraising event. Guests kept warm with cocktails from Belle Isle Moonshine, wines from Greenhill Winery & Vineyards, chocolate bars orchestrated by Ethel M, and McCormick spiced popcorn. The sparkling wine, courtesy of Bouvet Ladubay, was the perfect complement to the festive spirit of the afternoon.

The NSLM would like to say a special thank you to all sponsors and ticket purchasers. Although we were unable to hold the matches for the safety of the players and horses, we remain grateful for the outpour of support we received at all levels. This support allows us to host a variety of free public programs throughout the year such as our Open Late concert series, the popular Sunday Sketch, and our weekly Gallery Talks.

Manuel H. Johnson, Chair of the NSLM’s Board of We hope to see you all next year at the 2019 Polo Directors, and Jacqueline B. Mars, Vice Chair of the Classic on Sunday, September 15!

NSLM’s Board of Directors and Chair of the 2018 Polo Classic, welcomed guests and thanked them for coming out in support of the organization.

After lunch was served, celebrity guest and player Nacho Figueras and player Major Mark Cann of the British Forces Foundation spoke to attendees about importance of the NSLM’s “Mission in Motion.”

Players from the Dubai-U.S. Polo Assn., NSLMBritish Forces Foundation, Avanti, and NetJets teams were able to channel their competitive spirit in a close range game of foot polo. Announcer Ray

e ate v a S the D © 2018 Greg Montgomery

Left: The Epstein family and friends in front of the Step & Repeat; Middle: John Gobin, Danielle Quinn, David Greenhill, and Tolito Ocampo of the NetJets Team; Middle Right: Thorsen Construction guests enjoy the photo booth; Upper Right: Katherine Anderson and Mary Johnson at the 2018 Polo Classic Luncheon.

Photos by Nancy Kleck and Julie Napear.

2019 Polo Classic

N S L M’S M I S S I O N I N M OT I O N

Sunday, Sept. 15, 2019

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ASSIC

by Reid O’Connor

CL

NUAL

P OL O

RECENT EVENTS

VISITORS ARE BESIDE THEMSELVES OVER SIDESADDLE, 1690-1935

by Anne Marie Paquette Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator NSLM’s feature fall enabled Weiss to team up exhibition, Sidesaddle, 1690with NSLM’s curatorial 1935, traces changes in staff to achieve both the women’s horsemanship, exhibition and catalog. tack, and attire across NSLM partnered with continents and centuries. the Side Saddle Chase Research for the show Foundation to present a and exhibition catalog roundtable on modern was conducted by Claudia sidesaddle horsemanship Pfeiffer, the George L. and competition.

Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of The speakers, Devon Art, and Dr. Ulrike Weiss, Zebrovious, Amy Jo Magee, Lecturer at the University of Costumed interpreters from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation at the Sidesaddle, 1690-1935 exhibition opening. and Sarah O’Halloran, are St Andrews and 2016 John H. all sidesaddle competitors Daniels Research Fellow at NSLM. The exhibition has who encourage others to try riding aside. They brought hundreds of visitors to events and programs also help other sidesaddle riders find antique since opening in September. saddles and tack, and sometimes sew habits as well!

The exhibit opening on September 8 featured a Colonial sidesaddle riding demonstration with costumed interpreters from the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. Guests were thrilled to see modern applications of historic sidesaddle riding and to ask the interpreters questions about their tack and habits.

Attendees were interested to hear that many shorter riders find sidesaddle riding more comfortable than regular saddles, especially if the mounts are particularly large.

Subsequent educational programs have included scholastic forays into the nature and history of sidesaddle equestriennes. Dr. Ulrike Weiss journeyed from Scotland to present a talk on the research conducted in support of the exhibition, titled “A Short History of Sidesaddle.” Weiss’ research was based on numerous volumes held in NSLM’s Library collections, which she studied during her John H. Daniels Fellowship term in 2016. The Fellowship program

Guests attending the exhibition opening enjoyed a gallery talk

by Claudia Pfeiffer, the George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art.

LIBRARY PROGRAMS TEACH THE IMPORTANCE OF SPORTING BOOKS The Library’s collection is based on the theory that sportsmen and -women today benefit greatly from the records and directions left by the generations that came before. Book lovers and equestrians alike enjoyed talks with two featured authors this fall: Alastair Jackson and George Morris.

Jackson is the retired Director of the British Masters of Foxhounds Association, and last year he published a book of Daphne Moore’s hunting diaries. Moore was a journalist and an avid follower of the hunt from the 1930s to the mid 1980s, and chronicled hunts with words and sketches throughout that time.

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RECENT EVENTS Jackson presented on her life, accomplishments, and tenacity at a September 19 talk. About 10 days later, legendary equestrian George Morris gave a talk from his personal collection of riding manuals. Though primarily known as a trainer and judge, Morris is a strong advocate for treating riding as an academic subject as well as a sport.

He suggested that passionate equestrians should approach riding holistically— understanding the philosophy behind techniques and how they came about. Morris also hinted that he plans on publishing his third book in 2019.

George Morris giving a talk at the National Sporting Library & Museum.

NSLM HOSTS BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS

Left: Rev. Gene LeCouteur greets Admiral in front of the Library. Right: Dogs of all shapes and sizes gather in preparation for the Blessing.

For the first time, Emmanuel Episcopal Church’s Blessing of the Animals took place on NSLM’s lawn.

The event was a partnership between the rector, Rev. Gene LeCouteur, and Anne Marie Paquette, the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator, with special help from volunteer Molly Wade. About 60 individuals came with four-legged companions, including dogs, a cat, a horse, and children’s stuffed animals. The program included an ecumenical

service and blessing which highlights the special bond between humans and animals, whether they be pets, wildlife, livestock, or working animals. It is a bond explored in the fine art and library collections of NSLM and shared by Middleburg and the greater community. There are plans to expand the blessing next year to include representatives from other faiths and animal organizations across the area.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Christmas In Middleburg It’s that time of year again! If you and your loved ones plan on enjoying the parades and festivities of Christmas in Middleburg on Saturday, December 1, add NSLM to your schedule. The Museum will be open 10am-5pm, with family activities offered throughout the day. Take a break from the crowds and revel in world-class artwork without leaving town. Regular admission rates apply, but as always, members are free!

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NSLM NEWS

NSLM SAYS FAREWELL TO EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR MELANIE MATHEWES

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by the NSLM Staff opening at the NSLM, this spectacular show travelled to Richmond, VA where it was seen by over 106,000 visitors.

The exhibition catalog for The Horse in Ancient Greek Art was academically important, presenting new scholarship on the place of the horse in the ancient Greek world, and is still being distributed worldwide by Yale University Press.

n September NSLM staff said goodbye to our Executive Director, Melanie Mathewes, who departed Middleburg to take on the position of Director of Development at Shenandoah University’s Conservatory in Winchester, VA. Melanie began as Executive Director of NSLM in January 2013, and over her five-anda-half-year tenure oversaw tremendous progress for the organization. On-campus visitation has grown to over 10,000 guests, our Open Late summer concert series regularly draws hundreds of attendees, and educational programming has more than doubled with over 100 adult and family events per year.

Additionally, Melanie oversaw the revision and expansion of the NSLM’s membership program in early 2014, leading to 63% growth in member households over the past four years.

In addition to her championing of NSLM’s exhibitions, Melanie sought to increase access to the organization’s collections of art, books, and archival materials. The introduction of our blog, Drawing Covert, in December 2014 has allowed readers from around the globe to engage with NSLM’s mission, expanding our audience to individuals in more than 100 countries.

Furthermore, Melanie secured new or renewed funding for four underwritten staff positions: the George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art; the George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Head Librarian; the Mars Technical Services Librarian; and the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator.

Under Melanie’s leadership, NSLM saw record attendance for its art exhibitions, including 2017’s The Horse in Ancient Greek Art, a collaborative project with the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. After

Melanie worked tirelessly to raise the profile of NSLM in Loudoun County and the surrounding region. In addition to her duties as NSLM’s Executive Director, she serves on the Visit Loudoun board and the Virginia Horse Center Foundation board. She has also been an active member of the Virginia Association of Museums, the Middleburg Economic Development Advisory Board, and the Middleburg Business Left: Melanie, Perry, and Leigh Mathewes at the 2017 Polo Classic.

Right: Longtime Mayor Betsy Davis and Melanie at an Open Late concert, 2016.

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Melanie and Perry Mathewes and staff represented NSLM with the Wythe carriage brought from Colonial Williamsburg and driven by Director of Coach & Livestock Paul Bennett in the 2017 Christmas in Middleburg parade.

and Professional Association. Melanie’s career in museums spans 30 years and includes work at Agecroft Hall, The Museum of the Southwest, Fredda Turner Durham Children’s Museum, Craven Arts Council, Tryon Palace Historic Sites and Gardens, Norfolk Botanical Garden, and the Hermitage Museum and Gardens.

NSLM is proud of the sweeping growth and community engagement of the last half decade under Melanie’s direction. She will be sorely missed in the Library and Museum, even as we look forward to the organization’s next chapter. Farewell to our “fearless leader,” and many happy returns!

STAFF NEWS Lauren Kraut started as Collections Manager on August 27, 2018 in time to assist with installation for the Sidesaddle, 1630-1935 exhibition. In her position, she will oversee the maintenance and preservation of the permanent, study, and loan collections, as well as handle donation and bequest offers to the museum.

She has her BA in History from Roanoke College, BA in Art History from George Mason University, and an MSc in the History of Art, Theory, and Display from the University of Edinburgh. Her work history includes the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and the National Library of Scotland, as well as an internship at the National Sporting Library & Museum from 2012-2013. She also taught art history at Northern Virginia Community College from 2013-2016.

Lauren Kraut Collections Manager

Lauren joins us from James Madison’s Montpelier, where she served as Collections Manager since 2016. While at Montpelier, she assisted in several room installations and refurbishments, as well as image research and reproductions for the exhibition The Mere Distinction of Colour and the installation of Queen of Hearts: Dolley Madison in Popular Culture.

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UPCOMING EVENTS NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

EXHIBITION SEPT. 8, 2018 - MARCH 24, 2019

PROGRAM

Sunday Sketch DEC. 2 | 2 - 4pm Join us for a free sketching session in the Museum! Artists of all ages are invited to sketch alongside Anne Marie Paquette.

All materials are provided. Please contact Anne Marie, the Clarice & Robert H. Smith Educator, to register for this program: APaquette@NationalSporting. org, (540) 687-6542 ext. 25

On Fly in the Salt:

American Saltwater Fly Fishing from the Surf to the Flats EXHIBITION OCT. 12, 2018 - MARCH 3, 2019

PROGRAM

Coffee With the Curator NOV. 17 | 10 - 11:30am

Enjoy an informal coffee reception and tour of Sidesaddle, 1690-1935 with NSLM’s George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art, Claudia Pfeiffer. $5 admission, free for NSLM members.

PROGRAM

Coffee With the Curator NOV. 24 | 10 - 11:30am Enjoy an informal coffee reception and tour of On Fly in The Salt with NSLM’s George L. Ohrstrom, Jr. Curator of Art, Claudia Pfeiffer. $5 admission, free for NSLM members.

RECURRING PROGRAMS

Gallery Talks

Every Wednesday at 2pm

Once a week our Educator or Museum Curators give attendees a personalized peek at traveling exhibitions, new acquisitions, or permanent collection pieces. No reservations required; admission is free.

NationalSporting.org

Sunday Sketch!

First Sunday of the Month Join us for Sunday Sketch on the first Sunday of the month, from 2 - 4pm Free event, supplies are provided.

HOURS OF OPERATION

MUSEUM ADMISSION

LOCATION

Wednesday - Sunday 10:00 am-5:00 pm Closed on federal holidays Library: Free to the public

NSLM Members: Free Adults: $10 Seniors (65 & older): $8 Youth (13-18): $8 Children (12 & under): Free Free on Wednesdays and on the last Sunday of each month.

102 The Plains Road, Middleburg, VA MAIL TO: PO BOX 1335 Middleburg, VA, 20118-1335 T: 540-687-6542 | F: 540-446-0071