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Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate

Scores of Notables From Social and Educational Ranks Attend Preview Of Collection at Brilliant Gathering

By Hope Ridings Miller

ONE OF THE MOST distinguished gatherings in Washington this spring had a preview of an unusual library and art collection last night at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss in the Georgetown section of the city. The occasion was the opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, housed in two recently completed buildings on the Blisses' estate.

Scores of notables from the social and educational worlds of Washington and other cities were on hand to enjoy the event. The extensive library and art collection, which has been assembled by the Blisses over a period of years, is considered one of the finest of its kind in the country.

Among those present were Dr. James Bryant Conant, president of Harvard University, and Mrs. Conant, who came to Washington especially for the event. Mrs. Bliss, who was dressed in a black velvet gown with a lace collar and cuffs, greeted her guests in the library, which is a large room with a high ceiling and walls lined with books.

The library, which is the center of the new research institute, is devoted to the study of Byzantine and pre-Columbian art. The collection includes a large number of rare books, manuscripts, and works of art, many of which have been gathered from various parts of the world.

The opening of the library was the culmination of many years of work by the Blisses, who have long been interested in the preservation and study of Byzantine and pre-Columbian art. The new facility is expected to become an important center for scholars and researchers in these fields.

Among the guests at the opening were many prominent figures from the worlds of education, art, and diplomacy. Dr. Conant, in his remarks, praised the Blisses for their generosity in making the collection available to scholars and researchers, and expressed the hope that the new library would become a center of learning and cultural exchange.

The opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection is a significant event for Washington and for the world of art and scholarship. The collection is a remarkable achievement, and the new facility will undoubtedly make an important contribution to the study and preservation of Byzantine and pre-Columbian art.

Dr. Alexis Carrel

Among Those Present

The opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection was attended by a large number of prominent figures from the worlds of education, art, and diplomacy. Among those present were Dr. James Bryant Conant, president of Harvard University, and Mrs. Conant, who came to Washington especially for the event. Other notable guests included Dr. Alexis Carrel, the famous French scientist, and Dr. Edward C. Carter, president of the American Council of Learned Societies.

Many other prominent figures from the worlds of education, art, and diplomacy were also present, including Dr. George B. Gordon, director of the American Council of Learned Societies, and Dr. Robert S. Lopez, professor of history at Yale University. The opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection is a significant event for Washington and for the world of art and scholarship, and the presence of so many notable figures from these fields is a testament to the importance of the collection and the new facility.

Many Notables From

Out of Town

The opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection was attended by a large number of prominent figures from out of town, including Dr. James Bryant Conant, president of Harvard University, and Mrs. Conant, who came to Washington especially for the event. Other notable guests included Dr. Alexis Carrel, the famous French scientist, and Dr. Edward C. Carter, president of the American Council of Learned Societies.

Many other prominent figures from the worlds of education, art, and diplomacy were also present, including Dr. George B. Gordon, director of the American Council of Learned Societies, and Dr. Robert S. Lopez, professor of history at Yale University. The opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection is a significant event for Washington and for the world of art and scholarship, and the presence of so many notable figures from these fields is a testament to the importance of the collection and the new facility.

The image is a page from a newspaper article titled "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses’ Estate." The article, written by Hope Ridings Miller, describes a gathering at Dumbarton Oaks, a prestigious research library and collection located in Washington, D.C.

Key points from the article include:

1. Attendees: Scores of notable figures from social and educational backgrounds attended the preview event. These include:

   • Dr. James Bryant Conant, President of Harvard University.
   • Lady Palmer of London.
   • Mr. and Mrs. Henry Clay Frick.
   • Mrs. Woodrow Wilson and other dignitaries.
   • Dr. Alexis Carrel, a prominent scientist.
   • Don Juan de Austria, the Peruvian Ambassador.
   • Various other notable guests, including academic, cultural, and political figures.

2. Event Details: The event was a preview of the new library and collection housed in two newly completed buildings on the Blisses’ estate. The library and collection showcase a rich variety of medieval culture, including:

   • Over 16,000 volumes.
   • Extensive collections of art, including ancient manuscripts, jewelry, textiles, and other artifacts.

3. Highlights:

   • Dr. Alexis Carrel was particularly engaged, examining ancient manuscripts.
   • Lady Palmer and other guests were entertained with a dinner party.
   • A variety of distinguished individuals from different fields were present, including museum directors, curators, and prominent academics.

4. Library Features:

   • The library was described as having a unique and significant collection, emphasizing its importance in art and historical research.

5. Outlook: The article mentions that the library’s opening was significant and that there would be ongoing events and exhibitions showcasing the collection.

Overall, the article captures the elegance and prestige of the opening event at Dumbarton Oaks, highlighting the attendance of high-profile guests and the rich historical and artistic treasures within the library.

The image is a newspaper clipping from what appears to be the 1950s, detailing an event at the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library. The headline reads: "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate."

The article, titled "Scores of Notables From Social and Educational Ranks Attend Preview of Collection at Brilliant Gathering," was written by Hope Ridings Miller. The text describes a prestigious gathering where notable figures from various social and educational circles attended the preview of the library's collection.

Key points from the article include:

• The event was hosted by Mrs. Woodrow Wilson Bliss and her husband, George Blisses, at their estate.
• The library and collection were housed in two recently completed buildings on the estate.
• Notable attendees included Dr. James Bryant Conant, president of Harvard University, and Dr. Vannevar Bush, president of the Carnegie Institution.
• The gathering featured a dinner at which many guests were entertained by the collection and the extensive medieval displays.
• The library contained approximately 16,000 volumes, including medieval manuscripts, early printed books, and works of art.
• The event included a reception and a tour of the library and its collection, with notable attendees such as Lady Palmer, the Turkish Ambassador, and several museum directors and professors.

The article also lists several other distinguished guests, including:

• Dr. Alexis Carrel, the Peruvian Ambassador, and other ambassadors.
• Prominent figures from the world of academia, art, and culture, such as Dr. George Lyman Kittridge, President of Princeton University, and various directors of museums and galleries.

The clipping provides a detailed glimpse into the social and cultural significance of the event, highlighting the importance of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library in the intellectual and social circles of the time.

The image is a newspaper clipping detailing the opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library on the Blisses' estate. The article, titled "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate," describes a preview event attended by notable figures from social and educational ranks.

Key points from the article include:

1. Event Overview:

   • The article highlights the inauguration of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, located in two recently completed buildings on the Blisses' estate.
   • The event was a significant social gathering, attended by scores of notable figures from Washington and a select number of guests from other parts of the country.

2. Attendees:

   • Prominent attendees included Mrs. Blisses, Dr. James Bryant Conant (president of Harvard), and Mrs. Conant.
   • Notable guests from various fields were present, including Lady Palmer, Lady Lindsay, Lady Loreburn, and various ambassadors and ministers from countries like Peru, Greece, Sweden, and the Netherlands.
   • Other notable attendees included Dr. Alexis Carrel, a renowned surgeon, and a large group of educators and museum directors.

3. Library and Collection:

   • The library and collection were described as comprehensive, covering a wide array of subjects and periods, including medieval culture.
   • The collection includes over 15,000 volumes and a wide variety of art pieces, such as jewelry, textiles, and antiquities from different cultures and time periods.

4. Event Details:

   • The preview event began with a dinner party, followed by a tour of the library and collection.
   • The evening was described as a remarkable gathering, with attendees admiring the extensive library and collection.

5. Miscellaneous:

   • The article mentions that the library will be open to the public, and admission will be by invitation only.
   • The collection is noted for its wide-ranging interests, spanning from ancient to modern times.

The article provides a glimpse into the cultural and social significance of the event and the impressive nature of the Dumbarton Oaks collection.

The image shows a newspaper article titled "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate," with the subtitle "Scores of Notables From Social and Educational Ranks Attend Preview of Collection at Brilliant Gathering." The article, written by Hope Ridings Miller, details an event that took place in Washington, D.C.

Key points from the article include:

1. Event Description: The occasion was the inauguration of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, housed in two recently completed social science buildings on the estate of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss.

2. Attendees: The gathering included many distinguished guests from various fields. Among them were:

   • Mr. and Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss, the hosts.
   • The President of Harvard, Dr. James Bryant Conant, and Mrs. Conant.
   • The British Ambassador, Lord Halifax, and his daughter, Lady Alexandra Metcalfe.
   • Several other notable figures from diplomatic, academic, and social circles, including:
     • Dean Acheson, Under Secretary of State.
     • Sumner Welles, former Under Secretary of State.
     • Leading academics like Dr. Henri Focillon and Dr. Werner Jaeger.
     • Many other prominent individuals from various fields such as art, education, and international relations.

3. Dr. Alexis Carrel: The article highlights Dr. Alexis Carrel, a Nobel Prize-winning scientist, who was particularly noted for his attendance.

4. Library Details: The library is noted for housing rare and valuable collections, including:

   • Over 10,000 volumes and various significant artifacts.
   • Byzantine, early Christian, and pre-Columbian collections.
   • A focus on medieval culture with rare manuscripts and other valuable items.

5. Notable Guests List: The article lists many of the prominent attendees, including:

   • Mrs. Woodrow Wilson (Edith Bolling Galt Wilson).
   • Various diplomats, professors, and socialites from Washington, D.C., and beyond.

The event was a significant social and academic gathering, emphasizing the importance of the new Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection.

The image is a newspaper clipping from the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library, reporting on the opening of the Blisses' Estate. The article, titled "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate," details a social and educational event held at the estate.

Key points from the article include:

1. Event Description: The event was a formal gathering hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss, featuring the opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection. The event included a tour of the library and a reception.

2. Attendees: Notable guests included diplomats, socialites, and educational figures. Specific mentions include Dr. James B. Conant, President of Harvard University, and various ambassadors and their spouses.

3. Library and Collection: The library and collection are described as beautifully arranged and cataloged, showcasing a vast array of medieval artifacts and manuscripts.

4. Hosts: Mr. and Mrs. Bliss are highlighted for their hospitality and contributions. Mrs. Bliss is noted for her elegant attire and the orchids she received.

5. Guest List: The article lists a diverse group of attendees, including ambassadors from various countries, museum directors, and other prominent figures.

6. Dr. Alexander Carrel: The article mentions Dr. Alexander Carrel among the guests, noting his distinguished presence.

7. Notable Guests: The article concludes with a list of additional notable guests, emphasizing the event's significance and the esteemed company present.

Overall, the article conveys the grandeur and importance of the event, highlighting the cultural and educational significance of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection.

The image shows a scanned page from a newspaper, titled "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate." The page is aged and has yellowed, indicating that it's likely from an older publication. The article mentions notable individuals from social and educational realms attending the preview of a collection at Dumbarton Oaks. The headline is followed by a detailed account of the event and the guests, providing a snapshot of a historic event in the context of high society and academic circles. The text, due to the quality and size of the image, might be challenging to read completely, but it appears to be a recount of a significant cultural or academic event and includes the names of various dignitaries and scholars. The tone of the article suggests that it was a prestigious and noteworthy gathering.

The image appears to be a newspaper clipping or article from the early 20th century. The article is about the opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Museum in Washington, D.C. The article mentions that scores of notables from social and educational ranks attended the preview of the collection, which was housed in two recently completed buildings adjoining the Blisses' residence. The article provides a list of notable attendees, including politicians, diplomats, museum directors, curators, art historians, and others. It also briefly describes some of the exhibits on display, such as jewelry, textiles, sculpture, and manuscripts. The article was written by Hope Ridings Miller.

Description of the Image

The image shows a page from a newspaper or publication titled "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate". The page is part of a section titled "Scores of Notables From Social and Educational Ranks Attend Preview Of Collection at Brilliant Gathering", authored by Hope Ridings Miller.

Content Overview:

1. Headline and Subheading:

   • The main headline is "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate".
   • The subheading introduces the article: "Scores of Notables From Social and Educational Ranks Attend Preview Of Collection at Brilliant Gathering".

2. Introduction:

   • The article begins by describing a significant event held at the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection, located in Washington. It highlights that the library's opening was attended by a distinguished gathering of notable individuals from social and educational circles.
   • The event was described as a “preview of the most unusual library and art collection just acquired by the Bliss residents of the Dumbarton Oaks estate.”

3. Details of the Event:

   • The library and art collection were displayed in a newly constructed section of the social rooms, which were beautifully adorned and thoughtfully arranged.
   • The exhibition was noted to be both enjoyable and educational, with many attendees expressing their appreciation for the collection.
   • The event was attended by many prominent figures, including the president of Harvard, Dr. James Bryant Conant, and his wife, Mrs. James Bryant Conant. Other notable attendees included members of Congress, diplomats, and representatives from various educational institutions.

4. Notable Attendees:

   • The article lists several high-profile individuals who attended the event, including:
     • Dr. James Bryant Conant (President of Harvard).
     • Dr. Henry Taylor (Director of the Mairangi Collection at the Museum of Art, Princeton).
     • Dr. Edward Larrabee Miller (Director of the Egyptian Art Department at the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston).
     • Dr. George Arthur Plimpton (Director of the Boston Museum of Art).
     • Dr. Robert Woods Bliss (the Bliss residents of Dumbarton Oaks).
     • Dr. Alexis Carrel (a prominent scientist and Nobel laureate).
     • Don Antonio de Santa Ana (Peruvian Ambassador).
     • Mrs. Vera B. Kellogg (daughter of Joseph P. Kennedy).
     • Mrs. James Clement Dunn (wife of James Clement Dunn, the U.S. Ambassador to Poland).
     • Mrs. William C. Bullitt (wife of William C. Bullitt, a former U.S. Ambassador to France).
     • Mrs. Charles Carroll Glover (wife of Charles Carroll Glover, a former U.S. Ambassador to Turkey).

5. Library and Collection Highlights:

   • The library contained over 30,000 volumes, including rare manuscripts, early printed books, and a diverse collection of art objects.
   • The art collection featured items such as Egyptian artifacts, textiles, sculpture, and paintings.
   • The display was described as one of the most comprehensive displays of medieval culture in the country.

6. Special Features:

   • The event was marked by a “lightfoot function” that included dinner parties, some of which featured dancing.
   • The article emphasizes the brilliant gathering and the social and educational significance of the event.

7. Closing Notes:

   • The article concludes by noting that the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library, established in 1900 A.D., would continue to be a center of scholarly activity. Admission to the library was by invitation only.

Visual Characteristics:

• The page is printed in black text on a white background, typical of newspaper or magazine layouts from the early to mid-20th century.
• The text is organized into clear paragraphs, with headings and subheadings to guide the reader.
• The font is serif, consistent with formal publications of the era.
• The page appears to be part of a larger document, as indicated by the visible edge of the page and the partial text at the bottom.

Summary:

The image depicts a newspaper article detailing the opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library on the Bliss estate in Washington. The event was attended by numerous notable figures from social and educational circles, and the library's extensive collection of books, manuscripts, and art was showcased. The article highlights the significance of the event and the prestige of the attendees, emphasizing the cultural and scholarly importance of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library.

The image is a photograph of a printed page, likely from a newspaper or a magazine, featuring an article about the opening of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library. The page is aged, with noticeable discoloration and stains, indicating it is from an older publication. The text is arranged in columns and is written in a serif font, typical of print media from the early to mid-20th century.

The headline at the top of the page reads, "Dumbarton Oaks Research Library Opens on the Blisses' Estate." Below the headline, there is a subheading: "Scores of Notables from Social and Educational Ranks Attend Preview Of Collection at Brilliant Gathering."

The article is authored by Hope Ridings Miller. It describes an event where notable figures from various social and educational backgrounds gathered to preview the collection at the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library. The event was hosted by Mr. and Mrs. Robert Woods Bliss in their Georgetown home. The occasion marked the inauguration of the Dumbarton Oaks buildings, which were recently completed.

The article highlights the presence of various dignitaries, including government officials, diplomats, and educators. Notable attendees included Dr. James Bryant Conant, President of Harvard, and Mrs. Conant, among others. The event featured an exhibition of the Blisses' collection, which included a variety of artifacts such as jewels, textiles, sculptures, and classical art pieces. The collection spans over thirty years of objects, representing the late classical, early Christian, Byzantine, and medieval periods.

Additionally, the article mentions the presence of notable figures such as the Peruvian Ambassador, Don Manuel de Freyre Santander, and other distinguished guests. The library's collection was described as one of the most complete displays of medieval thought and artistry.

The article concludes with a mention of the Dumbarton Oaks estate, which was established in 1801, and notes that the art collection was bequeathed to Harvard University by the Blisses. The library's collection is open to scholars and researchers by invitation only.

Overall, the article provides a detailed account of the event, highlighting the significance of the Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and its collection, as well as the distinguished guests who attended the opening.