More than Meets the Eye A Rich and Varied Culture: Behind the Scenes of the Private Collections of Colonial Virginia & Washington October 4-9, 2015
Dear Friends, January 29, 2015 This tour is the work of many lovely Dames who have contributed their knowledge and contacts to gain exclusive access to venues which make this tour an experience that cannot be replicated by any other organization. We begin in Colonial Williamsburg with the Williamsburg Foundation, where we are hosted by Margaret Pritchard, well known curator of the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum in Colonial Williamsburg. She is the curator of the collections of prints, maps and wallpaper. Margaret Pritchard s publications include William Byrd II and His Lost History: Engravings of the Americas with Virginia Sites (1993); Empire s Nature: Mark Catesby s New World Vision with Amy Meyers (1998); and Degrees of Latitude: Mapping Colonial America with Henry Taliaferro (2002). She combined her study of geography with living nature for A Protracted View: The Relationship between Mapmakers and Naturalists in Recording the Land, and her contribution to Curious in our Way: The Culture of Nature in Philadelphia, 1740-1840. Through Margaret we have been granted rare access and will explore behind the scenes of one of the country s most extensive collections of furniture, silver, maps, wallpaper, paintings and fabrics with preeminent curators and restoration experts. We will have private visits and exclusive access to house museums and plantations of Virginia and Washington (including the oldest plantation in America). Our exclusive access includes Mount Vernon, Gunston Hall, Dumbarton House, The Bruton Heights Education Center in Colonial Williamsburg and The Anderson House. In addition to Margaret Pritchard s beautiful home and the Sulgrave Club, we will dine in historic and award-winning restaurants. We are limited in the number of passengers we can accept on this tour, and can only offer one departure. We have an extensive list of Dames who have indicated that they are definitely joining the tour, so please do not delay in making your reservation. As always, the staff of Connoisseurs Tours is standing by to assist you and to answer any questions you may have about the tour. Warm regards, Kathryn Waller
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4, 2015 Today you will depart your home city for the airport at Newport News, VA and transfer to the gorgeous Williamsburg Inn and Lodge. Connoisseurs Tours will arrange transfers from the airport to Colonial Williamsburg. The Williamsburg Inn is a destination in itself, since opening in 1937. When Queen Elizabeth II visited Colonial Williamsburg, she checked into this grand, Regency style property! We will have a lovely, private cocktail welcome reception in the Terrace Room at the Inn. After this, we will enjoy a private dinner, with a noted Williamsburg Historian who will introduce us to Colonial Virginia politics. We will spend the next three nights in Colonial Williamsburg at either the Williamsburg Lodge or Williamsburg Inn.* We will be very comfortable at both locations. (Reception, Dinner and Opening Speaker) *The tour price is based on the lovely Williamsburg Lodge, rooms are available at the Williamsburg Inn for an additional cost, please refer to the reservation form for details. MONDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2015 This morning we will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of Bruton Heights Education Center in Colonial Williamsburg. Upon arrival to Bruton Heights, we will be greeted by the curator and given an in-depth tour of the complex. Bruton Heights is a thirty-acre complex consisting of research and collections. Our first stop will be the John D. Rockefeller Library, which houses an extensive collection of books and maps dating back to the 18th century. The rare book collection contains more than 10,000 volumes and more than 45,000 manuscripts. After touring the library we will proceed to the area where the preservation for 18th century paintings and prints takes place to be shown the different methods of restoration. We will have exclusive behind-the-scenes access, only granted to VIP guests and restoration professionals. We will be met by Margaret Pritchard, Curator of Colonial Williamsburg s collections of prints, maps and wallpaper at the DeWitt Wallace Decorative Arts Museum. Her responsibilities include acquisition of new objects for the collections, and research in the medium of paper. She selects appropriate prints, maps, and wallpaper to hang on the walls of buildings in the historic district, such as the Brush-Everard House, the George Wythe House and the recently recreated Richard Charlton Coffeehouse. Margaret Pritchard s publications include William Byrd II and His Lost History: Engravings of the Americas with Virginia Sites (1993); Empire s Nature: Mark Catesby s New World Vision with Amy Meyers (1998); and Degrees of Latitude: Mapping Colonial America with Henry Taliaferro (2002). She combined her study of geography with living nature for A Protracted View: The Relationship between Mapmakers and Naturalists in Recording the Land, and her contribution to Curious in our Way: The Culture of Nature in Philadelphia, 1740-1840. We will split into small groups and will be hosted by Williamsburg curators and restoration experts as
we explore behind-the-scenes at the department of metals. We will be given an in-depth interpretation and demonstration of the preservation of all metals, especially silver. Our next stop will be the department of furniture conservation. Here, we will be exposed to the fine pieces that are to be restored and eventually placed in the exhibition buildings of the Foundation. After this we will depart for the DeWitt Wallace Museum where we will see many items that were previously restored at Bruton Heights! We will lunch on our own at the Café, and then tour the museum. We will have the afternoon free to engage in our surroundings. Included in the tour cost is with unlimited access to over 20 walking tours, museums, and the 18th century houses and gardens of Williamsburg. We are free to dine at any of the lovely taverns and inns. We will return to our hotel at our leisure. (B) TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2015 This morning we will gather in the lobby of the Williamsburg Lodge and be greeted by our professional tour guide and proceed to Shirley Plantation. Our guide will narrate the history of plantation life along the way. We will take an exclusive look through this lovely home, which is recognized as an architectural treasure. The famous squarerigged, flying staircase raises three stories with no visible means of support and is the only one of its kind in America. The special-access guided tour of the main floor reveals original 18th century hand carved woodwork, family portraits, silver, furniture and other decorative pieces. Since colonial times, Shirley has been a well-known center of hospitality, as shown by the 3 1/2 foot wooden pineapple that graces the Mansard roof. Four superb brick outbuildings form a Queen Anne forecourt, believed to be the only example remaining in America of this architectural style. After our tour of this beautiful plantation, we will have time to browse through the gift shop before we proceed to Cul s Courthouse Grille to enjoy a tavern luncheon with true southern hospitality. After lunch, we will drive to Berkeley Plantation. Berkeley is known for being Virginia s most historic plantation, (the oldest in America), and the site of America s first official Thanksgiving in 1619. The date of the building, 1726, and the initials of the owners, Benjamin Harrison IV and his wife Anne, appear in a date stone over a side door of the plantation home. The early Georgian mansion is said to be the oldest 3-story brick house in Virginia. Benjamin Harrison VI, installed the handsome Adam woodwork and the double arches of the Great Rooms in the mansion in 1790 at the direction of Thomas Jefferson. The rooms in Berkeley are furnished with a magnificent collection of 18th century antiques. We will then receive a short, private, guided tour of the gardens to include the boxwood gardens; the Ladies Winter Garden, Taps monument, First Thanksgiving monument, and the graveyard. At the conclusion of our plantation day, we will return to
Williamsburg for a private dinner reception hosted by Margaret Pritchard at her home. Receiving Margaret s wealth of knowledge on the material world of the early South in such an intimate setting is an extremely rare opportunity, not to be missed! (B, L, D) WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2015 This morning we check out of the Williamsburg Lodge, and proceed to Gunston Hall. Gunston Hall, George Mason IV s 5,500-acre tobacco and corn plantation, is a National Historic Landmark owned by the Commonwealth of Virginia and administered by a Board of Regents appointed from The NSCDA. Mason s home, constructed between 1755 and 1759, is an outstanding example of Georgian architecture. We ll enjoy lunch at the exquisite 2941 Restaurant and then make our way to Gunston Hall where we will receive a private guided tour of the mansion, outbuildings, grounds and library. After our tour of Gunston Hall we then make our way to our hotel in historic old town Alexandria for rest at the Hotel Monaco. Late this afternoon we have a private tour of Mt. Vernon, George Washington s Estate and Gardens, open exclusively for our group. We will enjoy VIP access to one of the most iconic 18th-century homes in America. Washington acquired Mount Vernon in 1754, and over the next 45 years slowly enlarged the dwelling to create the resplendent 21-room residence we see today. He personally supervised each renovation; advising on design, construction and decoration even during the Revolutionary War. This Potomac riverside estate includes the Ford Orientation Center, Museum and Education Center, 25 galleries, more than 700 artifacts, and interactive displays. We will be hosted by a distinguished member of the Commonwealth of Virginia who will talk about the fascinating life of Mrs. George Washington. We will experience many aspects to this estate that are rarely afforded to the average visitor, such as wine on the front porch and special access to the private library. We will have dinner at the charming Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, next to the estate and then make our way to our historic hotel in old town Alexandria. (B, L, D) THURSDAY, OCTOBER 8, 2015 This morning, after breakfast, we will enjoy an optional VIP tour to Dumbarton House, or a morning at leisure. Serving as a historic house museum and headquarters for The NSCDA, Dumbarton House places historic preservation at the heart of both the museum and the headquarters missions. We will be personally welcomed by the executive director, given an in-depth white glove tour of the museum s collection led by the curator, and view objects not currently on view for the regular tours. We ll have a unique opportunity to view this finest example of Federal period architecture in the U.S., along with its impressive furniture and decorative arts collections, and how the NSCDA uses Dumbarton to promote
Built in 1902 as the winter home of Herbert and Martha Wadsworth, the Sulgrave Club is housed in a Beaux Arts-style mansion on Dupont Circle. The gracious rooms, salons and drawing rooms for the Wadsworths, retain their elegance and charm. Sulgrave guests enjoy delicious, seasonal menus by Chef James Hudock, that incorporate local produce and showcase artisanal vendors in the city. After dinner, we will make our way back to our hotel in old-town Alexandria for overnight. (B, L, D) interest in our country s Colonial origins. A visit to Dumbarton will give us a clear idea of what life was like in the earliest days of our nation s capital and more behind-the-scenes glimpses of the excellent work of curators and preservationists. We will return to our hotel in time to enjoy lunch at one of the many restaurants, and rest or shop in Old Town. This afternoon, we will enjoy a private tour of the Anderson House, which is the home of the Society of the Cincinnati. The Society of the Cincinnati is the nation s oldest patriotic organization, founded in 1783 by officers of the Continental Army and their French counterparts who served together in the American Revolution. Its mission is to promote knowledge and appreciation of the achievement of American independence and to foster fellowship among its members. Now a nonprofit educational organization devoted to the principles and ideals of its founders, the modern Society maintains its headquarters, library, and museum at Anderson House in FRIDAY, OCTOBER 9, 2015 We make our way to the Washington airport and head for home, or for those that wish to spend additional time, extensions can be arranged. Washington, D.C. Here at Anderson House, we will enjoy a private tour and wine in the garden before we head next door to enjoy a sumptuous dinner at the Sulgrave Club.
WILLIAMSBURG LODGE ACCOMMODATIONS: Just a short walk from Colonial Williamsburg s Historic Area the Williamsburg Lodge is a well-known Colonial Williamsburg landmark. The Williamsburg Lodge was opened in 1939 to provide comfortable accommodations for travelers to the Historic Area. The Lodge was recently renovated and their well-appointed guest rooms offer modern convenience with a nod to the history of the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation. From its original blue stone floors to the cypress accents and reproduction folk art, in every cozy nook and spacious expanse, the Lodge tells the story of its Virginia setting and the history of the town Rockefeller restored. Our rooms are furnished with pieces inspired by The Colonial Williamsburg Foundation s collections at the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum. Enjoy a relaxing hotel escape in the heart of the Revolutionary City, with a world-class restaurant and convenient access to spa and golf recreation amenities. WILLIAMSBURG INN Experience true luxury at the Williamsburg Inn with attention to detail and gracious southern hospitality. The Williamsburg Inn is one of the nation s finest resort hotels, internationally acclaimed for its accommodations, service and cuisine. Opened in 1937, it represented John D. Rockefeller, Jr. s commitment to providing the experience of staying at a comfortable Virginia estate with the most modern, gracious appointments. A recent meticulous renovation retained the graceful elegance of the Inn s facade, while encompassing every aspect of its interior, from spacious guest rooms with luxuriously appointed marble bathrooms, to English Regency-style furnishings, and comfortable seating areas. It was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1997. Williamsburg Inn is a member of Historic Hotels of America, the official program of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Inn features a selection of unique rooms in an unforgettable setting, just steps from the Revolutionary City of Williamsburg. *The tour price is based on the lovely Williamsburg Lodge. Rooms are available at the Williamsburg Inn for an additional cost, please refer to the reservation form for details. HOTEL MONACO Hotel Monaco in Alexandria will have just finished a complete renovation and welcomes us into the heart of Old Town. When it comes to hotels in Alexandria VA, the Monaco is one of the top-rated, and certainly the most unique and stylish. This boutique landmark hotel is centered amidst the historic charm and lively culture of Alexandria, Virginia, and within easy reach of Washington DC, Mt. Vernon and Reagan National Airport. Their exceptional location is matched by the luxurious accommodations, services, and amenities, including a hosted evening wine reception.
GENERAL INFORMATION, TERMS & CONDITIONS PRICES Tour price is $2695.00 per person, double occupancy. Single Supplement is $639.00 per person. There is an additional cost of $395.00 total per person to stay at the Williamsburg Inn. DEPOSIT & FINAL PAYMENT A Deposit of $400.00 per person is due to formally register and reserve a place on this tour. Deposits and payments can be paid by check or any major credit card. Final payment is due July 1st, 2015. The Travel Insured Group Deluxe travel insurance protection plan is strongly recommended, at a cost of $199.00 per person, double occupancy and $229.00 per person, for single occupancy. CONNOISSEURS TOURS PROTECTION PLAN PROVIDED BY TRAVEL INSURED Traveling is a big investment. It pays to protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances that can result in trip cancellation and additional expenses such as costs related to medical emergencies. This Travel Insured Protection Plan is specifically designed to provide you with peace of mind knowing you are protected against the financial impact of unexpected events while on your trip. Additional insurance is available to include the cost of your airfare. Please contact Connoisseurs Tours if you would like to insure the cost of your airline tickets after your have purchased your airline tickets. See below for the Schedule of Coverage: Trip Cancellation* (not applicable if $0 trip cost) Trip Cost* Trip Interruption** ($500 return air only if $0 trip cost) 150% of Trip Cost* Cancel for Work Reasons Trip Cost* Trip Delay 6 hours $750 ($150/day) Baggage/Personal Effects $1,500 Baggage Delay 24 hours $400 Accident & Sickness Medical Expense $50,000 Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation $250,000 Accidental Death & Dismemberment $25,000 Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services Included *Up to the lesser of the Trip Cost paid or the limit of Coverage for which benefits are requested and the appropriate plan cost has been paid. Maximum limit of $10,000 **150% of Trip Cost paid up to a maximum of $10,000 for the unused portion of Your Trip and the transportation cost to re-join the Trip or return home. CANCELLATIONS From the date of deposit up to 121 days prior to departure, $200.00 per person is non-refundable. From 120 to 91 days prior to departure $400.00 per person is non-refundable. From 90 to 60 days prior to departure 50% of the full program cost is non-refundable. From 59 to 0 days prior to departure 100% of the full program cost is non-refundable. All cancellations must be in writing. RESPONSIBILITY Connoisseurs Tours acts only as an agent for the traveler with respect to transportation, accommodations and other services offered on the tour. Connoisseurs Tours assumes no responsibility or liability for any act, error or omission, or for any injury, loss, accident or delay or irregularity that may be caused by any defect in any aircraft, ship, train, bus or other carrier or through neglect or default of any subcontractor or other third party. The passage contract in use by the carriers when issued shall constitute the sole contract between the carriers and the traveler. Connoisseurs Tours and/or their agents will not be responsible for loss, injury, damages or expenses to person or property, due to illness, weather, strikes, local laws, hostilities, wars, terrorist acts, acts of nature or other such causes in connection with the tour for anything beyond their reasonable control. Connoisseurs Tours is not responsible for transportation or other delays or changes in the tour program beyond their control, nor any additional expenses or loss of time that may be incurred by the traveler. It may be necessary or advisable for the well-being of all travelers to alter the itinerary at any time, without notice to the travelers, and such alterations will be made without penalty to Connoisseurs Tours. Connoisseurs Tours reserves the right to decline or not to retain any person as a member of any tour or to change or withdraw a tour as circumstances demand. All rates quoted are based on tariffs in effect at the time the tour was planned and are subject to change in the event of adjustment therein. Baggage is carried at the owner s risk and baggage insurance is recommended. Connoisseurs Tours reserves the right to substitute hotels of equal or superior quality. The proposals of this section are governed by Georgia law, and final payment by the traveler to Connoisseurs Tours shall be deemed to be consent to the above provisions. VALIDITY January 29, 2015 through April 4, 2016
RESERVATION FORM More than Meets the Eye, October 4-9, 2015 Name: Address: City: State: Zip: Email: Telephone: Rooming With: Please Reserve place(s) for this tour DEPOSIT INFORMATION- PLEASE CHECK ONE: I am ready to formally register now (a $400.00 per person deposit is due to confirm a space) I wish to purchase single accommodations I wish to pay an additional $395.00 per person to stay at the Williamsburg Inn I wish to purchase the Connoisseurs Tours Protection Plan Enclosed is a deposit of for people check (Checks should be made payable to Connoisseurs Tours) Credit Card: Visa Mastercard Amex Discover Card# Exp. Date: / Sec. Code: I have read and understand the Terms and Conditions of this tour Signature: Date: / /2015 Please fax or scan your reservation form to: Connoisseurs Tours 1 Tiffany Place Savannah, GA 31406 (912) 351-9525 1-800-856-1045 (912) 351-9565 FAX www.connoisseurstours.com info@connoisseurstours.com I would like assistance with air travel