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SprinG 2011

480 South Adams Road Rochester, MI 48309-4401 MeadowBrook

Smell the coffee! The Museum Shop features a growing line of food-and-bev- erage products inspired by the activities of Meadow Brook Farms. The Farms in their heyday were almost entirely self-sufficient, having to im- port only a few staples for daily food service operations. While coffee plants were not part of the operation, given Michigan’s climate, the drink Meadow Brook private label 2008 Meadow Brook Blend: $8.95 for was a staple for both family Chardonnay and 2009 Cabernet Splendor in 8 oz. bag. Meadow Brook Blend and staff meals and The Hall Sauvignon: $14.95/bottle. the Glass Decaf: $8.95 for 8 oz. bag. features numerous silver and Wine glass, subtly etched with Matilda Wilson had an china coffee services in its collections. Meadow Brook’s new Meadow Brook logotype: $6.95. eye for these gems of medium roast coffee is produced by a Michigan company, Stainless steel wine stopper, artistic expression The Coffee Beanery. embossed with MB initials: $18.95.

Visit the Museum Shop or order online at www.meadowbrookhall.org/shop. INSIDE: Tudor Roots| Petal Power | Report to Donors YourYour Financial FFinaininancialal FamilyFFaamillyy |Contents

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2| Editor’s column 8 | Petal power A first (and lasting) Flowers and gardens made a huge impact on the impression Meadow Brook estate, but not just outdoors 4| Around the Estate 12 | Writers’ camp he OakT land Univ y Brersit anch OU BRANCH MEMBERS A real gem proudly supports Oakland ENJOY THESE BENEFITS Excerpts from last summer’s Meadow Brook Steppin’ out! camps show that these students are not misspending ersitUniv y and its a lia est . • Home Impr t Lemenvompr oans their youth gages tor•M gages Orange barrel season ur crO edit union is oper ed bbta y Ro•L e AAtaw o Lute oans Well, someone had to and for members of the Oakland avings•S Options be first! 14 | Splendor in the glass Some say “vases” and some say “vahzes,” but Matilda y ccersitUniv .yommunit • FREE TTotallyotallyotal Gr een Checking Jazz up your evenings • FREE ATMATM A essccTM Wilson deﬁnitely had an eye for these gems of artistic expression • FREE 24/7 A Aouncc esscct 24| Last Page Fruits of the vine 18 | Tudor roots VisitVisit the OaklandOakland University Branch Oakland Univ y Brersit Branchy A volunteer packs his bags and travels the back roads todayyytoda to joinj oin the family!fami !yl F Piv3265 ts Droine Dr eivts illsn HuburA illsn , MI 48326 of England to ﬁnd the homes that inspired Meadow Brook’s design vicerember SM vicerember es (248) 364-4708 ww g.orcu.msufww TToll-Foll-Free 800-766-OUCU • 800-766-6828 idary - FondaM idary y 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. 22 | 2010 Meadow Brook Donor Report daturaS y 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. The list is growing...and new members Branch Hours: are joining the fun yhursdaTy - ondaM - yhursdaTy y 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. yidarF 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. y daturaS y 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 179*IHIVEP PEVIHI*971 'VIHMX9RMSR' RSMR9XMHIV' On the Cover: This flower form Favrile vase, created c. 1900 by Louis Comfort Tiffany and pho- ederF insuredally tographed on reflective glass, is among dozens of vases collected by Matilda Wilson Ay the NCUb Ay that will be on display at The Hall beginning June 1. For a preview, see page 14. Photo by Rick Smith YourYour FinancialFFinaininancialal FamilyFFaamillyy |Contents

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2| Editor’s column 8 | Petal power A first (and lasting) Flowers and gardens made a huge impact on the impression Meadow Brook estate, but not just outdoors 4| Around the Estate 12 | Writers’ camp he OakT land Univ y Brersit anch OU BRANCH MEMBERS A real gem proudly supports Oakland ENJOY THESE BENEFITS Excerpts from last summer’s Meadow Brook Steppin’ out! camps show that these students are not misspending ersitUniv y and its a lia est . • Home Impr t Lemenvompr oans their youth gages tor• M tor• gages Orange barrel season ur crO edit union is oper ed bbta y L Ro• e AAtaw Lute oanso Well, someone had to and for members of the Oakland Sa• vings Options be first! 14 | Splendor in the glass Some say “vases” and some say “vahzes,” but Matilda y ccersitUniv .yommunit • FREE TTotallyotallyotal Gr een Checking Jazz up your evenings • FREE ATM A essccTM Wilson deﬁnitely had an eye for these gems of artistic expression • FREE 24/7 A Aouncc esscct 24| Last Page Fruits of the vine 18 | Tudor roots VisitVisit the OaklandOakland University Branch Oakland Univ y Brersit Branchy A volunteer packs his bags and travels the back roads todayyytoda to joinjto oin the family!fami !yl F Piv3265 ts Droine Dr eivts illsn HuburA illsn , MI 48326 of England to ﬁnd the homes that inspired Meadow Brook’s design vicerember SM vicerember es (248) 364-4708 ww g.orcu.msufww TToll-Foll-Free 800-766-OUCU • 800-766-6828 idary - FondaM idary y 7:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. 22 | 2010 Meadow Brook Donor Report daturaS y 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. The list is growing...and new members Branch Hours: are joining the fun yhursdaTy - ondaM - yhursdaTy y 9:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. yidarF 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. y daturaS y 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. 179*IHIVEP PEVIHI*971 'VIHMX9RMSR' RSMR9XMHIV' On the Cover: This flower form Favrile vase, created c. 1900 by Louis Comfort Tiffany and pho- ederF insuredally tographed on reflective glass, is among dozens of vases collected by Matilda Wilson Ay the NCUb Ay that will be on display at The Hall beginning June 1. For a preview, see page 14. Photo by Rick Smith |Editor’s Column MeadowBrook MAGAZINE Editor & Publisher Geoffrey C. Upward Associate Editor Kimberly Zelinski ______Art Direction Lynn Metzker Graphic Design Photography Rick Smith ______Contributing Writers Lisa Drummond Meredith Long Madelyn Rzadkowolski ______ Business Manager

THERESA FINCK PHOTOGRAPHY Robin Gardner

MEADOW BROOK MAGAZINE A first (and lasting) impression is published twice a year for friends of Meadow Brook Hall. It was May, 1980...a beautiful Michigan spring day. At the urging of a friend, Reproduction without permission I had ventured onto the east side of the Oakland University property. My friend is prohibited. thought I would enjoy the “nice” gardens there and a “big” mansion that was somehow connected to the name “Dodge.” So here I was in my Ford Fairlane, EDITORIAL OFFICES passing a rambling white farmhouse, a stone greenhouse, an imposing stable and are located at Meadow Brook Hall 480 S. Adams Road riding ring and a few other interesting farm-type buildings. I stopped in front of Rochester, MI 48309-4401 a pair of brick gates, where I could see a hint of a building far through the trees. I drove down the drive through a woodland, its floor carpeted with wild trilliums, HOW TO REACH US bluebells and daffodils. Email: [email protected] Phone: 248-364-6204 And then a moment I will never forget: I passed over a quaint bridge into a Fax: 248-364-6201 courtyard that revealed in full panorama an imposing and massive façade that lit- erally took my breath away. I left the property with the assertion that “I will work ADDRESS CHANGES here someday.” Email: [email protected] Mail: Kelly Lenda And I did. Some 30 years later, I am still amazed by both the scale and Meadow Brook Hall detail of Meadow Brook Hall and its collections. This issue of Meadow Brook 480 S. Adams Road MAGAZINE features the gamut of Matilda and Alfred Wilson’s passion and talents – Rochester, MI 48309-4401 from the English origins of The Hall’s Tudor-Revival design to the incredible beauty and creativity of the Wilsons’ collections of fine and decorative arts. We hope you can stop by to see one of the finest remaining examples of a Michigan country estate in bloom this spring – both on the grounds and inside the house. The best things in life seem to get better with age, although maybe not my old Fairlane. Explore the reasons why Cooley is an excellent choice in legal education. At Cooley, many people are finding that it is possible to fit law school into their busy lives. With four campuses Kim Zelinski across Michigan – Lansing, Auburn Hills, Grand Rapids, and Ann Arbor – Cooley offers classes year-round, days, Associate Editor evenings, and weekends. Students receive a legal education that provides them with the knowledge, skills, and ethics that distinguishes our over 14,000 graduates worldwide. Find out more at cooley.edu. Knowledge. Skills. Ethics.

Thomas M. Cooley Law School is committed to a fair and objective admissions policy. Subject to space limitations, Cooley offers the opportunity for legal education to all qualified Matilda and Alfred Wilson applicants. Cooley abides by all federal and state laws against discrimination. In addition, Cooley abides by American Bar Association Standard 211(a), which provides that “a law 2 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 school shall foster and maintain equality of opportunity in legal education, including employment of faculty and staff, without discrimination or segregation on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age or disability.” cooley.edu

ICG.0910.034.AD |Editor’s Column MeadowBrook MAGAZINE Editor & Publisher Geoffrey C. Upward Associate Editor Kimberly Zelinski ______Art Direction Lynn Metzker Graphic Design Photography Rick Smith ______Contributing Writers Lisa Drummond Meredith Long Madelyn Rzadkowolski ______ Business Manager

THERESA FINCK PHOTOGRAPHY Robin Gardner

ICG.0910.034.AD |Around the Estate |Around the Estate

Orange barrel season Steppin’ out! Well not exactly orange, and not exactly barrels...but spring does signal Meadow Brook comes alive this tour (including the commencement of the preservation and restoration season at The Hall. spring and summer, beginning with staff wings, bath- Projects this year include: a new 2011 house tour theme, rooms, closets • exterior lighting enhancements “Meadow Brook in Bloom,” featuring and playrooms) • chimney tuck-pointing and masonry repair (pictured) Matilda Wilson’s fascination with all- and hear the • entry bridge repair assessment things floral (see related article pp. personal stories • plumbing repairs to the Pegasus Fountain and 8-11). Here are a few things you, of both the • restoration of the kitchen service corridor and Wilson Room friends and family won’t want to Wilson family (formerly the Servants Dining Room and Sitting Room) miss this season: and staff as we This year’s activity, which will total in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, examine early is made possible by the Matilda R. Wilson Fund matching grant program, TWILIGHT TUESDAYS 20th-Century supported by individual and corporate donors to The Hall. Want to enjoy Meadow Brook Hall life on an Ameri- like a guest of the Wilsons? For those can country of you who love gardens, wine and his- VOLUNTEER SPOTLIGHT estate. Tours are tory, we are pleased to announce available Satur- JUDY WORKINGS A real gem “Twilight Tuesdays” on Tuesday days and Sundays, but space is limited. Hall will host six camp sessions from evenings throughout the summer of Please call 248-364-6263 for more “Matilda Dodge Wilson was a June to August focused on the devel- 2011. From 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on June information. woman ahead of her time. She wanted opment of kids’ creativity and the 28, July 26, August 23 and September flat-out fun of writing in an inspiring her home preserved and enjoyed by fu- 20, guests can enjoy the summer house YOUTH WRITING CAMPS environment. Operated by the ture generations, and as a docent I’m tour “Meadow Brook in Bloom,” or Looking for an alternative to sports Meadow Brook Writing Project, helping, in a small way, to keep up that experience a landscape and architecture camps this summer? Greatly expanded a partnership between Oakland legacy.” Volunteer Rita Shaughnessy tour while enjoying music and a cash first came to Meadow Brook Hall by popular demand, Meadow Brook University faculty and area schools, the bar on the terrace. camps are divided in age groups when she moved to Rochester in 1994. Okay, it’s a little different from being She’d gotten a postcard in the mail beginning with pre-K and run- a guest of the Wilsons – there is a ning through 12th grade. from Oakland University welcoming modest ticket price of $10. Please call her to the area and inviting her to see 248-364-6263 for more information. SESSIONS ARE: what Oakland and Meadow Brook had Pre-K, June 27-29 to offer. BEHIND-THE-SCENES TOUR K-2nd Grade, July 5-8 As a docent, Rita’s favorite thing is Meadow Brook has many stories to 3rd-5th Grade (Session 1), “…meeting people from all over and tell. Please July 11-15 exposing them to our gem.” Recently join us this 3rd-5th Grade (Session 2), she had the pleasure of hosting four summer for July 18-22 Russian guests. “Only one spoke Eng- Meadow 6th-8th Grade, July 25-29 lish, so he’d translate for the others as I Brook’s ex- 9th-12th grade, August 1-5 talked,” she explained. It’s that kind of citing new ever-changing interaction that keeps Behind-the- For more information tours fresh for her. “I like to have Scenes tour! and to register, visit www.oak- school groups visit because they’re Explore land.edu/youthwritingcamps. never dull.” rarely seen (See also an article on last Her love of The Great Estate is evi- areas of the year’s camps on pp. 12-13 in dent as she happily admits; “I thor- home on this this issue.) oughly enjoy giving tours today, as extended much as when I began.”

4 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 5 |Around the Estate |Around the Estate

4 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 5 |Around the Estate

Jazz up your evenings September 22, 2011

As Matilda Wilson’s prized roses bloom, so too will the local jazz scene at Meadow Brook Hall’s summer favorite “Jazz in the Garden” music series on June 23, July 21 and Meadow Brook Hall’s annual August 18. Music has long resounded on the estate, due to Frances Dodge’s love Wild Game Dinner and Auction of swing and Matilda and Alfred’s to benefit the preservation of The Hall Well, someone had to be first! desire to build Longtime supporters and volunteers Richard and Jan Caloia made their Rochester own history by becoming the first to join Meadow Brook Hall’s new and “Friends of Meadow Brook” annual membership program (at the Meadow Guilders level). Brook into Tickets on Sale Now! Call (248) 364-6263 “We’ve been donors for awhile,” Jan Caloia stated. “And we wanted a cultural to continue to support our local treasure.” As “Friends of Meadow center and Brook” they’ll enjoy benefits such as: to support • Free year-round tour admission for two adults and their children or American grandchildren (under 18 years old) artists. Un- •10% discount on community events, educational events and museum like many of shop merchandise their contemporaries, the Wilsons tol- • Subscription to the bi-annual Meadow Brook MAGAZINE and erated their daughter’s passion for the • Electronic communications updates swanky new music, even hiring the By donating to Meadow Brook, the Caloias and the growing ranks of Tommy Dorsey Band with singer their fellow members (see pp. 22-23) help fund preservation, restoration Frank Sinatra to play at Frances’ 25th and conservation proj- birthday party in The Hall’s Ballroom. TO JOIN ects, as well as commu- Frances’ husband Jimmy Johnson To find out more about the benefits of join- nity, interpretive and ing Meadow Brook Hall’s family of Friends and contributed to Cats Meow, a national becoming a steward of this incredible treasure, educational program- swing magazine out of Detroit, during visit www.meadowbrook hall.org, go to the ming. the time the Johnson family lived on “Join” drop-down menu and click on “Mem- “In the future, we’d the estate in the original Dodge farm- bership.” like to see an endowment house. FAMILY OF FRIENDS LEVELS OF GIFTING program established,” Jan This dedication to Detroit musicians The Friends of Meadow Brook stated, “so that funding still echoes at The Hall, with relaxing | $100 to $249 annually isn’t an issue and the evenings of sultry jazz in the candlelit The Guilders of Meadow Brook focus can be on continu- Pegasus Garden. Enjoy main floor | $250 to $999 annually ing to maintain the con- tours of The Hall, then follow the The Friends of Meadow Brook dition of the house and garden paths to find dancing, light (Student Chapter) | free to OU Students providing a multi-faceted hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar. Tickets Cornerstone Society | $1,000 and up annually experience for visitors.” are $30, $27 for Friends of Meadow Brook members. MB 6 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 meadowbrookhall.org |Around the Estate

Jazz up your evenings September 22, 2011

Still-life painting, Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer, (French 1663-1699), PePetaltal Dining Room.

Frances M. Dodge, 18, in ﬂower garden, John Dodge Clubhouse, c.1932.

biography of Matilda Wilson and served as national president from could not be properly told 1964 to 1966. A without including stories But the impact of flowers and floral about her lifelong passion for flowers. themes did not stop at her front or Power Historically, for women, gardening back doors. For centuries, whether Power Brick flower pot design, above exterior was a fulfilling endeavor that provided painted on canvas, illustrated in books, them an opportunity to make their woven in rugs, painted on glass or door of Flower Room, 1929. own decisions, experiment with new carved in stone, the flower – with all its information and be creative. They symbolism, beauty and allure – has learned from books and magazines been popular subject matter inside and through garden clubs. homes as well. Flowers, the meaning As a young woman with significant they evoke, the universal language they wealth, Matilda was afforded the op- speak, and the thousands of species portunity to fully develop her interest they represent, have made this timeless in both horticulture and floriculture. icon an inexhaustible source of inspira- She personally developed all of the tion for artistic expression. gardens at her properties and directed Matilda’s decorating and furnishing the operation of her greenhouses – first of Meadow Brook Hall was no excep- in her Detroit homes and ultimately at tion. Some of the most opulent and her country retreat, Meadow Brook whimsical examples of floral inspiration Farms – and passed on her passion to can be seen throughout The Hall. Venetian styled etched mirror with Handmade wool carpet with floral designs, by Paul Poiret, her daughters Frances and Barbara and We offer readers a brief look at some granddaughter Judy. She joined both floral motif, French Room Bath, from the Salon Martine, Paris, France, c.1927. of them on these pages and invite you the Bloomfield Hills and Rochester to get the full visual story by taking c.1929. branches of the Women’s National this year’s summer tour, fittingly titled Farm and Garden Association in 1930, “Meadow Brook in Bloom.” – ed.

8 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 9 Flowers and gardens made a huge impact on the Meadow Brook estate, but not just outdoors

Still-life painting, Jean-Baptiste Monnoyer, (French 1663-1699), PePetaltal Dining Room.

Frances M. Dodge, 18, in ﬂower garden, John Dodge Clubhouse, c.1932.

8 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 9 Floral tile, Rookwood Pottery, French Room Bath, c. 1929.

Basswood carving, Irving & Casson, Dining Room pediment, c. 1929.

Floor lamp with yellow tulip design, Louis C. Tiffany, Brooch, yellow and rose gold with diamonds, Metal ﬁreplace screen, attributed to Oscar Sitting Alcove, c. 1915. Matilda Wilson, c. 1950. Bach, Daniel Dodge Bedroom, c. 1929.

10 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 11 Floral tile, Rookwood Pottery, French Room Bath, c. 1929.

Basswood carving, Irving & Casson, Dining Room pediment, c. 1929.

10 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 11 The Diary of Writers’ Camp The Hidden Gate By Honor Shelef Frances Dodge-Wilson There it was. By Miya Dixon The black, metal gate behind the green bushes. The one with As you’ll see on these two pages, there was definitely no 11th November 1929 writer’s cramp or writer’s block at last summer’s Meadow the giant keyhole. I put the black, iron key with intricate de- The first thing I saw as we drove up Brook Writing Project youth camps, a partnership be- signs into the slot and turn. There was a click, and then I push the heavy door until I manage to walk through. to our new house was the family crest, tween Oakland University and local schools held at The I look around me in amazement. Flowers of different colors shining brightly in the sunlight. It had a Hall. We offer excerpts from a few submissions to show Max at bloom everywhere. Bees buzz by in swirls and the wind picks wolf in the center. you that creativity in our youth is alive and well. up the sweet smell of the Our mother gave us ten minutes to browse around the house. It had a huge For information on the 2011 Meadow Brook Writing Meadow Brook garden. Reds, yellows, pur- Once upon a time there library! But I didn’t stay long. I just ples, pinks, greens, and blues Project youth camps, and to register, go to the following was a mouse named Max. had to look at my room and my playroom. everywhere. It was like I website: http://www.oakland.edu/youthwritingcamps. He lived outside in the back- My room is great! It’s so perfect for a stepped into heaven, heaven yard at Meadow Brook, but teen like me. I’m practically running up on earth. A place where he was a lonely mouse. the stairs to the playroom. Wow! It’s angels could go to be. A It was 1942. One day Max wonderful! It has my tea sets and all of romantic, sweet place to was climbing the clock above my dress up clothes. Oh my! It has room be alone or with someone the front door. The clock to do plays with Olivia! This is great special. was really, really high. While news! I should tell mother… I inhale the sweet perfume he was climbing he slipped! one last time and then sigh. 12th November 1929 He started to fall! But he I decide to call it The Angel Oh my so much rushing about it’s our landed on the windowsill to Garden, and this would be house-warming party! Olivia is coming, Barbara’s room. my special place. Then, I she promised! The servants are busy; they The window was open. He slowly close the gate, turn the key in the slot, and pull it out. are making stew, mashed potatoes, beef, scurried in. Barbara was I slide it into my pocket, and turn towards the path. chicken, noodles, soup, bread, salad, fruit going to bed. She was twelve chutney and jack rabbit. I am really in years old. Max said to her, trouble. I do not know what to wear!... “Hello, my name is Max.” Barbara was surprised and scared at first! Max was very, very nice and he told her The Wooden Wolf Head about his lonely life. Barbara The wooden wolf head is perched on the spiraling stairs of the asked Max if he would like old mansion. It’s so intricate, so detailed. It’s single purpose, A Journal Entry by Alex Mack to come in and live with her to implant fear in the eyes of humans. Sharp daggers for teeth, at Meadow Brook. July 13, 1930 ready to kill. Even though he is made of wood, he is always He said, “Yes, please.” Hello, I'm Danny. I collected some really slimy ready to pounce upon invaders. Protection by fear, now there So he lived in the nursery is a concept that is hard to grasp. He protects you by scaring frogs today and I put them in my sister Francis’ tea next door to Barbara. She you, telling you not to enter. His carved, wooden fur, standing cup. I got a real kick out of it. Then I took a ride kept Max a secret from her up on end. His mahogany ears catching every sound. His birch in my airplane. It was cool. Everyone looked like mother Matilda and brought nose catching every lingering scent. He has transformed my ants. Then I went hunting. I hit a deer and two him food every day. Max was thoughts. He made me ponder before I cautiously put my squirrels. We ate them and they were good. I guess not lonely any more. foot on the first creaking step. I will never forget that majestic – By Hayley Monette that really ends my day. Bye for now. wolf in wood. — By Ailsa Bentley

12 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 13 The Diary of Writers’ Camp The Hidden Gate By Honor Shelef Frances Dodge-Wilson There it was. By Miya Dixon The black, metal gate behind the green bushes. The one with As you’ll see on these two pages, there was definitely no 11th November 1929 writer’s cramp or writer’s block at last summer’s Meadow the giant keyhole. I put the black, iron key with intricate de- The first thing I saw as we drove up Brook Writing Project youth camps, a partnership be- signs into the slot and turn. There was a click, and then I push the heavy door until I manage to walk through. to our new house was the family crest, tween Oakland University and local schools held at The I look around me in amazement. Flowers of different colors shining brightly in the sunlight. It had a Hall. We offer excerpts from a few submissions to show Max at bloom everywhere. Bees buzz by in swirls and the wind picks wolf in the center. you that creativity in our youth is alive and well. up the sweet smell of the Our mother gave us ten minutes to browse around the house. It had a huge For information on the 2011 Meadow Brook Writing Meadow Brook garden. Reds, yellows, pur- Once upon a time there library! But I didn’t stay long. I just ples, pinks, greens, and blues Project youth camps, and to register, go to the following was a mouse named Max. had to look at my room and my playroom. everywhere. It was like I website: http://www.oakland.edu/youthwritingcamps. He lived outside in the back- My room is great! It’s so perfect for a stepped into heaven, heaven yard at Meadow Brook, but teen like me. I’m practically running up on earth. A place where he was a lonely mouse. the stairs to the playroom. Wow! It’s angels could go to be. A It was 1942. One day Max wonderful! It has my tea sets and all of romantic, sweet place to was climbing the clock above my dress up clothes. Oh my! It has room be alone or with someone the front door. The clock to do plays with Olivia! This is great special. was really, really high. While news! I should tell mother… I inhale the sweet perfume he was climbing he slipped! one last time and then sigh. 12th November 1929 He started to fall! But he I decide to call it The Angel Oh my so much rushing about it’s our landed on the windowsill to Garden, and this would be house-warming party! Olivia is coming, Barbara’s room. my special place. Then, I she promised! The servants are busy; they The window was open. He slowly close the gate, turn the key in the slot, and pull it out. are making stew, mashed potatoes, beef, scurried in. Barbara was I slide it into my pocket, and turn towards the path. chicken, noodles, soup, bread, salad, fruit going to bed. She was twelve chutney and jack rabbit. I am really in years old. Max said to her, trouble. I do not know what to wear!... “Hello, my name is Max.” Barbara was surprised and scared at first! Max was very, very nice and he told her The Wooden Wolf Head about his lonely life. Barbara The wooden wolf head is perched on the spiraling stairs of the asked Max if he would like old mansion. It’s so intricate, so detailed. It’s single purpose, A Journal Entry by Alex Mack to come in and live with her to implant fear in the eyes of humans. Sharp daggers for teeth, at Meadow Brook. July 13, 1930 ready to kill. Even though he is made of wood, he is always He said, “Yes, please.” Hello, I'm Danny. I collected some really slimy ready to pounce upon invaders. Protection by fear, now there So he lived in the nursery is a concept that is hard to grasp. He protects you by scaring frogs today and I put them in my sister Francis’ tea next door to Barbara. She you, telling you not to enter. His carved, wooden fur, standing cup. I got a real kick out of it. Then I took a ride kept Max a secret from her up on end. His mahogany ears catching every sound. His birch in my airplane. It was cool. Everyone looked like mother Matilda and brought nose catching every lingering scent. He has transformed my ants. Then I went hunting. I hit a deer and two him food every day. Max was thoughts. He made me ponder before I cautiously put my squirrels. We ate them and they were good. I guess not lonely any more. foot on the first creaking step. I will never forget that majestic – By Hayley Monette that really ends my day. Bye for now. wolf in wood. — By Ailsa Bentley

12 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 2011 13 Splendor in the Glass BY KIM ZELINSKI

Lavender crystal vase, Czechoslovakia ( above)

Aqua and white cameo vase, Thomas Webb ( left)

Green amphora vase, Italian ( below)

They are the decorative accessories that beautify the home . They exude good taste and style and occupy a prominent role in art history . They are the artistic creations of an elite class of designers extraordinaire that include names such as Gallé, Tiffany, Lalique and Steuben .

They are the vases, vessels and glass these artistic entrepreneurs during sculptures created during one of the the late 19th Century resulted from a world’s most innovative periods of conﬂuence of factors: advances in glass-making, notably for the wealthy. technology and science (including And, to our great fortune, they were large forges) that made possible the collected by Matilda Wilson and are creation of new colors, textures and on display in the gallery of cabinets forms of art glass not before possible; at Meadow Brook Hall. the availability of a wealthy clientele The incredible success enjoyed by base, made possible by the fortunes

14 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 15 Splendor in the Glass BY KIM ZELINSKI

Lavender crystal vase, Czechoslovakia ( above)

Aqua and white cameo vase, Thomas Webb ( left)

Green amphora vase, Italian ( below)

14 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 15 acquired during the period’s industrial boom; and the Aesthetic Movement that elevated the decorative arts to a new level. For the first time, a direct correlation could occur between beautiful sur - roundings and the quality of one’s life, with an art-for-art's sake principle. Collectively, these influences trans - formed heretofore mundane vases from mere receptacles for flowers to beautiful, one-of-a kind and highly collectible objects of art. Whether blown, molded, enameled, etched or sculpted, the techniques of these avant-garde artists were inspired from the natural world and the prevail - ing principles of the Art Nouveau pe - riod (1890-1905) distinguished by its use of organic forms, curving lines, vi - brant iridescence and use of symbol - “We are all at work toward the same ideal, which – is Beauty. ism. Two of the most recognized artists That same beauty is what nature has lavished upon us as a of this period, French glassmaker Emile Gallé and American glassmaker Louis Comfort Tiffany, are well repre - supreme gift – it is all about us to see and to use .” sented in the Meadow Brook Hall col - lection. Gallé was best known for his – Louis Comfort Tiffany cameo glass in which he brought his subject to life with the illusionistic ef - fect of the flowers and foliage that adorn the glass. Tiffany created his sig - nature glass, Favrile (hand-made), with subtle colors that glow with an irides - cent finish. Rotating one of his pieces under light reveals a kaleidoscope of colors. A selection of Meadow Brook’s vases will be on special display this year in the lower-level Fountain Room. There is most definitely splendor in this glass that visitors will not want to miss. MB

Purple and yellow mold-blown vase, Emile Gallé ( left)

Iridescent compote, Louis C. Tiffany (upper right)

Flower-form vase, Louis C. Tiffany (far right)

Gold Aurene vase, Steuben (near right)

16 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 17 acquired during the period’s industrial boom; and the Aesthetic Movement that elevated the decorative arts to a new level. For the first time, a direct correlation could occur between beautiful sur - roundings and the quality of one’s life, with an art-for-art's sake principle. Collectively, these influences trans - formed heretofore mundane vases from mere receptacles for flowers to beautiful, one-of-a kind and highly collectible objects of art. Whether blown, molded, enameled, etched or sculpted, the techniques of these avant-garde artists were inspired from the natural world and the prevail - ing principles of the Art Nouveau pe - riod (1890-1905) distinguished by its use of organic forms, curving lines, vi - brant iridescence and use of symbol - “We are all at work toward the same ideal, which – is Beauty. ism. Two of the most recognized artists That same beauty is what nature has lavished upon us as a of this period, French glassmaker Emile Gallé and American glassmaker Louis Comfort Tiffany, are well repre - supreme gift – it is all about us to see and to use .” sented in the Meadow Brook Hall col - lection. Gallé was best known for his – Louis Comfort Tiffany cameo glass in which he brought his subject to life with the illusionistic ef - fect of the flowers and foliage that adorn the glass. Tiffany created his sig - nature glass, Favrile (hand-made), with subtle colors that glow with an irides - cent finish. Rotating one of his pieces under light reveals a kaleidoscope of colors. A selection of Meadow Brook’s vases will be on special display this year in the lower-level Fountain Room. There is most definitely splendor in this glass that visitors will not want to miss. MB

Purple and yellow mold-blown vase, Emile Gallé ( left)

Iridescent compote, Louis C. Tiffany (upper right)

Flower-form vase, Louis C. Tiffany (far right)

Gold Aurene vase, Steuben (near right)

16 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 17 The intrepid author at Belton House, England

BARREL VAULT CEILING Meadow Brook Hall Upper Great Hall (left) Chastleton House, Oxfordshire, 1612 (above) Tud or Roo ts BY LARRY BABER

WOODCARVING As a Meadow Brook Hall docent, 1486, Knole House has 365 rooms A volunteer packs Meadow Brook Hall Dining Room, I can recite chapter and verse about the (compared to Meadow Brook’s mere Irving & Casson, 1929 (left ) English architectural roots of Matilda 110!). The Reynolds Room was the in - his bags and travels and Alfred Wilson’s treasured home, spiration for the fanciful mythological Belton House carving attributed to built between 1926 and 1929. We ex - creatures depicted in the Wilson’s Liv - Grinling Gibbons, Lincolnshire, 1688 the back roads of plain to visitors every day how the ing Room plaster ceiling. The Spangle (above) Wilsons went to England in July 1925 Bedroom’s fireplace wall features intri - on their honeymoon and again in July cately carved pilasters (columns) also England to find 1927 with their architect William Kapp adapted for use in their Living Room. from the firm of Smith, Hinchman and The Brown Gallery provided the ideas the homes that Grylls to gather design ideas. But see - for the oak paneled walls and ribbed ing those Tudor country manor homes ceilings in Meadow Brook Hall’s Main firsthand would give me an invaluable Gallery and Upper Gallery. inspired Meadow contextual background to really spice Next up was a day at Hampton up my talks. And, since my bags are Court Palace in Surrey County, a fa - Brook’s design pretty much always half-packed, last vorite residence of King Henry VIII WOOD -BEAMED CEILING Fall’s trip seemed like a natural. and Queen Anne Boleyn. Think Knole Meadow Brook Hall, Ballroom (left) My three-week adventure began House is big? Try walking Hampton Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, with a full day at Knole House in Kent Court’s 1,080 rooms! Built in 1514, 1514 (above) County. Built between 1456 and its 241 decorative brick chimneys in -

18 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 19 The intrepid author at Belton House, England

BARREL VAULT CEILING Meadow Brook Hall Upper Great Hall (left) Chastleton House, Oxfordshire, 1612 (above) Tud or Roo ts BY LARRY BABER

18 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 19 CHIMNEYS Meadow Brook Hall (upper) Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, 1514 (lower)

brated sculptor, Corrado Parducci, The good old days... molded and carved a similar barrel vaulted ceiling in Meadow Brook’s Upper Great Hall. At 12th-Century Haddon Hall up north in Derbyshire County, a similarly named Long Gallery was added in 1590. The gallery’s delicately molded ceiling was the design used in Alfred Wilson’s Study. Traveling south toward London well into my third week, I stopped to tour Belton House in Lincolnshire, which was built in 1688. Fowl and fruit lime - wood carvings attributed to Grinling Gibbons (1648-1721) were much ad - mired by the Wilsons. Installed above the mantle in the Marble Room, the carvings had been removed from Ashridge Park House in the early 1920s (I guess we would call that a renovation). The Wilsons had similar carvings made in basswood for their Christopher Wren Dining Room. And, the Belton House Chapel ceiling was the prototype for the Wren’s elab - orate plaster carved ceiling, a master - piece by Parducci. Back in Kent, my ﬁnal stop was St. Dunstan’s Church in Cranbrook to see the wood-beamed ceiling that inspired the Meadow Brook Sun Porch’s wormy chestnut ceiling. I saw a lot more than I can relate in this article, but to get all the fascinat - ing back story, you’ll have to take one of my tours...although I can’t guaran - tee that I’ll be at Meadow Brook the spired Meadow Brook’s 39 chimneys. road, although I’m not sure my fellow day you stop by – lots of other places The linenfold wood paneling in the motorists got used to my uniquely to see and things to do! Cardinal Wolsey Room inspired the ex - American, former auto company em - Larry Baber retired from Chrysler’s tensive use of linenfold in the Great ployee-style aggressiveness!) over to International Operations after a Hall and Library at Meadow Brook. Chastleton House in Oxfordshire, 34-year career with the company. And the Great Hall at Hampton Court which was built in 1612. The Long He has traveled to 43 countries ...and was the prototype for the Wilson’s me - Gallery has a wonderful barrel vaulted counting...and has served Meadow Brook dieval gothic style Ballroom. ceiling. A gallery allowed Elizabethan as a docent and curatorial assistant for are ba ck. I next coaxed the rental car (I got ladies to walk under cover during in - the past three years. His wife, Kathy, also Join the Friends of Meadow Brook and experience the best of used to driving on the other side of the clement weather. Detroit’s most cele - volunteers. MB Americana. Check out all of our membership benefits and activities at

20 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 meadowbrookhall.org CHIMNEYS Meadow Brook Hall (upper) Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, 1514 (lower)

20 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 meadowbrookhall.org 20 10 Meadow Brook Donor Report

$250,000 AND UP Evans Coatings Roger & Diane Dingman Matilda R. Wilson Fund Fieldstone Winery Ken & Liz Faragher Frank Fisher Carl Fucinari $50,000 – 99,999 Robin Gardner Butch Harding International Paper Company Sheldon Gardner Henry Ford Museum and Foundation Bette Gomez Greenﬁeld Village John Van Lennep Great Oaks Country Club Hiawatha Canoe Livery Hamlin Pub and Deli Hills of Rochester Garden Club $10,000 – 49,999 James Hargett Jeffery & Kathy Janke Lois & Lloyd Harsh Nicolette Horak Jenaras Kresge Foundation Gregory Heleski Lynn Jenkins J. Thomas Jewelers Richard & Janet Kakkuri $5,000 – 9,999 Nadine Jakobowski Gwendolyn Kirby Theodore & Diane Cunningham James Jensen Richard & Margaret Leinbach Dr. Jerry & Emilie Dancik George & Trudy Karas Kelly Lenda William & Story John Richard & Sharon Koenig Leslie Littell Charlene Handleman Roberta Kowalski John Lohmeier Raymond & Kris Nicholson, Jr. Kruse and Muer Quality Foods, Inc. Ron & Deborah Lunney Margot’s European Day Spa MBH Squires $1,000 – $4,999 Betty Marshall Charles & Dairdre McGlothlin Meadow Brook Theatre Donald & Lila McMechan Crissman Lincoln Mercury, Inc. Chef Patrick Gazzarato Sue May Alice Siehda Michigan Design Center Shelia Marin Richard & Janice Caloia Fish Whisperer, Tommy Lynch Oakhurst Country Club The Parsonage Catherine Nelson-Tonkovich Meadow Brook Music Festival Jim Causley Buick-GMC, Inc. Robert Hunter The Outdoor Connection Daniel & Annie Williams North Oakland Dental Group Mitchell’s Fish Market Restaurant Doc Sweet’s Candy Company Anna Knill Palace Sports and Entertainmen t Howard Witt Oakland University Athletics Tom & Nancy Morey Erhard BMW Patricia Koykka Parisian George & Annie Frisch Oakland University Hockey Club Moosejaw Hunter’s Creek Club Jim & Chris Orndorff Laura Mutz Gary & Ann Laidlaw Pewabic Pottery John & Rebecca Oetjens Deborah & Richard Lee Pine Trace Golf Club Linda Oliver OU- MSU Federal Credit Union Red Run Golf Club Palm Palace Restaurant Welcome...20 11 Meadow Brook Members! MotorCities National Heritage Area Red the Salon Richard & Andrea Parker PR Haig Jewelers, Inc. Ristorante Lindo Robert & Marty Peters SUPPORTERS WHO HAVE JOINED THE CORNERSTONE SOCIETY , T HE FRIENDS OR THE GUILDERS OF MEADOW BROOK Michael Schuchard The Resorts of Tullymore and St. Ives Stephen Poissant ANNUAL GIVING PROGRAMS . ( THROUGH MARCH 31, 2011) Rooster Ranch David & Susan Purdy $500 – $999 The Royal Park Hotel Reliv Detroit THE CORNERSTONE SOCIETY THE GUILDERS OF MEADOW BROOK Tamara Burns Greydon Hyde & Christine Burnard Rzadko’s Pennzoil Romano’s Macaroni Grill Restaurant Ed & Gretchen Adler Richard & Janice Caloia Grace Campbell Charles & Tolina Hennighausen See Eyewear Salon 35 Mary Ann & Robert Baer Christine Burnard & Greydon Hyde Frank & Janet Cassise Oakland University Golf Nancy Smith Sarah Scott Natural Beauty Products Nancy Cross Sharon Duffy & Onorio Catenacci James & Jane Cerano and Learning Center Sports Authentics Gene & Marty Sobocinski Jerry & Emilie Dancik, Pegasus Circle Robert Goldsmith & Janet Varner Robert & Gwen Cesario Michael & Rebecca Niemiec St. Vincent Conclave Peter & Barbara Sucher John Green Bette Gomez Marilyn Creelman Susan Phelps, M.D. Red Cross of Constantine TGI Friday’s Restaurant Charlene Handleman, Pegasus Circle Charles & Tolina Hennighausen Frank Fisher Dwight Snelling Robert & Susan Ufer Douglas Thorpe James & Anne Howlett Richard & Sherry Koenig Dr. Christopher W. Ford Stoney Creek Questers #203 Andrew Upward Peter & Irene Townsend William & Story John, Pegasus Circle Michael & Rebecca Niemiec Cherrill Flynn Deborah Syme Donald & Audrey Upward Trader Joe’s Gary & Ann Laidlaw Dr. Susan Phelps Robin Gardner Larry & Debbie Wilson David Vartanian Doris Uhlmann Richard & Deborah Lee Mr. & Mrs. Bradley Rush Peggy Harbaugh Wines of Distinction Williams Business Services Inc. Denise Warren Matilda R. Wilson Fund, Tudor Circle Dr. Richard & Jan Somerlott James Hargett The Wyndgate Golf Course Women’s National Farm and Christopher Wiley John Mohr, Jr. Stoney Creek Questers #203 Gene Hopkins Services, LLC Garden Association Terry & Kathy Wilson Maggie Savage, Pegasus Circle Ronald Sudol Nadine Jakobowski Kimberly Zelinski Alison Wong M.S.U. Federal Credit Union, Deborah Syme George & Trudy Karas $100 – $499 Lisa Yarema Oakland University Branch, David Vartanian John Lohmeier Alton & Yvonne Rice James Anderson UP TO $99 Victor Zambardi Tiffany Circle Denise Warren Barbara Smith, Tudor Circle Woman’s National Farm and Larry & Fran Smith Scott Beemer Ken & Ruthann Bajorek Michael Schuchard Garden Association Nancy Smith Keith Bennett Claudette & Eric Brown GIFTS IN KIND Geoffrey Upward Margaret Twyman Boulder Pointe Golf Club Camp Bow Wow Barbara Birmingham Robert & Susan Ufer Carl’s Golﬂand Roberta Bressette John Van Lennep, Tudor Circle THE FRIENDS OF MEADOW BROOK and Conference Center Cheryl Verbruggen Jean Cipa Patricia Claerhout Megan and Jeffrey Bovee Paul & Roberta Bresette Kim Zelinski Grace Campbell CJ Mahoney’s Restaurant Continental Cregar Claudette & Eric Brown William & Mary Cichowski CNA Foundation Dhaseleer Taxidermy E. Allen Decoy Co. Detroit Zoo Andrea Eis

22 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 23 20 10 Meadow Brook Donor Report

22 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 23 |Last Page y

Fruits of h p a r g o t o

the vine h P

k c

Meadow Brook Farms was a robust n i F

operation, featuring a wide variety of a s e

livestock and crops, including fruit r e

trees, on its 1,500 acres. h T Grapes were grown on the property (the photo above shows members of the Dodge family at the farm, c. 1912) and vines can still be found producing F F fruit today. In honor of this tradition, T IMELESS E LEGANT P ERFECT the Museum Shop has recently intro - duced two private-label wines in a lim - ited collector series: “Meadow Brook – The Great Estate Chardonnay 2008” and “Meadow Brook – The Great Es - tate Cabernet Sauvignon 2009.” Check them out on your next visit (see the back cover for more farm-in - spired products). MB

24 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 www.meadowbrookhall.org |Last Page y

Fruits of h p a r g o t o

the vine h P

k c

Meadow Brook Farms was a robust n i F

operation, featuring a wide variety of a s e

livestock and crops, including fruit r e

24 Meadow Brook MAGAZINE | Spring 20 11 www.meadowbrookhall.org SprinG 2 011

480 South Adams Road Rochester, MI 48309-4401 Meado wBr ook

Smell the coffee! The Museum Shop features a growing line of food-and-bev - erage products inspired by the activities of Meadow Brook Farms. The Farms in their heyday were almost entirely self-sufficient, having to im - port only a few staples for daily food service operations. While coffee plants were not part of the operation, given Michigan’s climate, the drink Meadow Brook private label 2008 Meadow Brook Blend: $8.95 for was a staple for both family Chardonnay and 2009 Cabernet Splendor in 8 oz. bag. Meadow Brook Blend and staff meals and The Hall Sauvignon: $14.95/bottle. the Glass Decaf: $8.95 for 8 oz. bag. features numerous silver and Wine glass, subtly etched with Matilda Wilson had an china coffee services in its collections. Meadow Brook’s new Meadow Brook logotype: $6.95. eye for these gems of medium roast coffee is produced by a Michigan company, Stainless steel wine stopper, artistic expression The Coffee Beanery. embossed with MB initials: $18.95.

Visit the Museum Shop or order online at www.meadowbrookhall.org/shop. INSIDE: Tudor Roots| Petal Power | Report to Donors