Huntington Library

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Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a cultural and research institution established by Henry E. Huntington (1850–1927) in San Marino, California. It is one of the world's most extensive and comprehensive research libraries for the study of American history, literature, and art, and is home to a vast array of rare books, manuscripts, and works of art. The institution is situated on the 207-acre estate of Henry Huntington and offers extensive botanical gardens, featuring over a dozen thematic gardens.

History

The Huntington was founded in 1919 by Henry E. Huntington, a successful businessman who made significant contributions to the development of Southern California through his interests in railroads, real estate, and utilities. Upon his death, Huntington left his estate and a substantial part of his fortune to establish a public institution for the "advancement of learning, the arts, and sciences, and to promote the public welfare."

Collections

Library

The Huntington Library's collection encompasses nearly nine million items, with a strong focus on the 15th to the early 20th centuries. Notable collections include the Ellesmere Chaucer, a rare copy of the Gutenberg Bible, and extensive materials related to British and American history, literature, and the Renaissance. The library also holds significant collections of photographs, maps, and prints, making it a vital resource for researchers worldwide.

Art Collections

The Art Museum at The Huntington houses European and American art spanning the 15th to the early 20th century. Highlights of the European collection include works by Gainsborough, Reynolds, and Turner, as well as the famous Blue Boy by Thomas Gainsborough. The American art collection features works by Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, and John Singer Sargent, among others. The museum also displays a significant collection of decorative arts, with an emphasis on British and French pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens cover approximately 120 acres of the estate and are divided into more than a dozen thematic gardens. Notable gardens include the Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, Desert Garden, and Rose Garden. The gardens serve as a living collection of plant species from around the world, including several rare and endangered species. They provide a rich resource for botanical research and education and offer a beautiful and tranquil environment for visitors.

Education and Research

The Huntington offers a wide range of educational programs and resources for scholars, students, and the general public. It hosts lectures, workshops, and exhibitions to promote understanding and appreciation of its collections. The institution also provides fellowships and grants to support scholarly research in the humanities.

Visitor Information

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open to the public, with ticketed entry. It offers a variety of tours, programs, and exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can explore the collections, gardens, and exhibitions, and participate in educational programs and special events.