Member-only story

Larz and Isabel Anderson: Gilded Age Philanthropists and Art Patrons

Julio Ramón Ribeyro

·16.7k Followers· Follow

Published in Larz And Isabel Anderson: Wealth And Celebrity In The Gilded Age

6 min read

328 View Claps

27 Respond

Save

Listen

Larz and Isabel Anderson: Wealth and Celebrity in the Gilded Age

by Stephen T. Moskey

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6154 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	343 pages

In the annals of American history, the Gilded Age stands as a period characterized by rapid industrialization, economic growth, and the emergence of immense wealth. It was during this transformative era that Larz Anderson and Isabel Weld Perkins Anderson emerged as prominent figures, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural and philanthropic landscape of Boston and beyond. Their extraordinary lives, dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge, the advancement of art, and the well-being of their community, continue to inspire generations.

Early Years and Family

Portrait Of Larz Anderson Larz And Isabel Anderson: Wealth And Celebrity In The Gilded Age

Larz Anderson was born on August 14, 1861, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to a prominent family of entrepreneurs. His father, Nicholas Longworth Anderson, was a successful businessman and politician, serving as the Mayor of Cincinnati for two terms. Anderson's mother, Elizabeth Kilgour, instilled in him a deep appreciation for the arts and a strong work ethic.

Isabel Weld Perkins was born on April 2, 1862, in Boston, Massachusetts, to a wealthy and influential family. Her father, Robert Treat Paine, was a prominent attorney and philanthropist, and her mother, Maria Wetmore Perkins, was an accomplished pianist and art collector. Anderson's early years were marked by extensive travel, education, and exposure to the finest cultural institutions in Europe and the United States.

Marriage and Diplomatic Career

Larz Anderson and Isabel Weld Perkins met in 1885 at a social gathering in New York City, and they were married two years later. Anderson's diplomatic career began soon after, with President Grover Cleveland appointing him as the United States Minister to the Kingdom of Serbia in 1897. He subsequently served as the United States Ambassador to Belgium from 1899 to 1902, where he played a crucial role in strengthening diplomatic ties between the two nations.

Philanthropy and Civic Engagement

Portrait Of Isabel Anderson Larz And Isabel Anderson: Wealth And Celebrity In The Gilded Age — Isabel Anderson, a renowned art collector and philanthropist.

Throughout their lives, Larz and Isabel Anderson were deeply committed to philanthropy and civic engagement. They believed in the transformative power of education and generously supported institutions of higher learning, including Harvard University, Radcliffe College, and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The Andersons also dedicated themselves to improving the lives of the underprivileged, establishing hospitals, orphanages, and community centers throughout the Boston area.

Art Collection and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum

One of the most significant legacies of Larz and Isabel Anderson is their extraordinary art collection. They began collecting in the late 1800s, acquiring masterpieces from around the world, including paintings by Titian, Rembrandt, and John Singer Sargent. In 1900, they founded the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum in Boston, one of the most celebrated art museums in the United States.

The museum was designed by Isabella herself, who envisioned a beautiful and intimate space where visitors could experience art within an elegant domestic setting. The museum opened to the public in 1903 and immediately became a beloved destination for art enthusiasts and scholars from around the world.

Later Years and Legacy

Larz And Isabel Anderson House Larz And Isabel Anderson: Wealth And Celebrity In The Gilded Age

Larz Anderson passed away in 1935, and Isabel Anderson continued to support the museum and engage in philanthropic activities until her death in 1927. Their legacy endures through the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, which remains one of the most visited and cherished cultural institutions in Boston.

The Larz and Isabel Anderson House, their former residence in Brookline, Massachusetts, has been transformed into a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives and tastes of this extraordinary couple. The house is filled with exquisite furnishings, artwork, and personal belongings, providing a fascinating testament to their love of art and gracious living.

Larz and Isabel Anderson were exceptional individuals whose contributions to Boston, to the United States, and to the world of art are immeasurable. Their unwavering belief in the power of philanthropy, their passion for education, and their unwavering commitment to the advancement of art continue to inspire and enrich generations. Their legacy serves as a testament to the impact that individuals can make when they dedicate their lives to the betterment of society.

Larz and Isabel Anderson: Wealth and Celebrity in the Gilded Age

by Stephen T. Moskey

4.2 out of 5