Annual Delaware Antiques Show 2019

You Recognize a Classic When You See It Winterthur is a museum known for its treasures. Among the most cherished are John and Marjorie McGraw, ardent supporters, generous donors, and friends to the extended Winterthur community. The McGraws’ affection for Winterthur began some three decades ago, when they became members of the Henry Francis du Pont Collectors Circle. In 2001, John was elected a Winterthur Trustee, and he chaired the Board from 2007 to 2010. From the beginning, it was a double act, with Marjorie devoting equal time to the institution. John and Marjorie were appointed to the Collections Committee in 2002 and 2003, respectfully, and served as co-chairs of Collectors Circle from 2003 to 2007. Committed to emerging scholars and young people pursuing the museum field, the McGraws have been particularly supportive of the Winterthur Program in American Material Culture. Among the most memorable visits of a student’s career is time spent at the McGraw homes on Cape Cod and in New York, where they have the opportunity to examine a superlative collection of American fine and decorative arts and share Marjorie’s infectious enthusiasm for her collections of dolls, miniatures, and antique Christmas decorations. The McGraws’ munificence is not limited, however, to the numerous important objects they have given and bequeathed to Winterthur. They have endowed the position of the John L. and Marjorie P. McGraw Director of Collections, held by Linda Eaton; initiated the endowment for the position of Professor of American Decorative Arts, formerly held by Brock Jobe and now by Catharine Dann Roeber; and generously supported the exhibitions Harbor and Home as well as Paint, Pattern & People . When John announced his intention to retire from the Board late in 2018, it was voted unanimously to award him emeritus status, as a mark of respect and admiration. And everyone at Winterthur was delighted earlier this year when Marjorie agreed to serve on the Board. We look forward to working with her in the years to come. In 2013, Winterthur honored the McGraws with the prestigious Henry Francis du Pont Award for their many contributions not only to Winterthur but also to the field of American decorative arts at large. Cheers to two classics who have enriched the lives of us all. — 144 —