Biltmore’s Curatorial Team: Current Projects
Estate History 08/05/15
Written By Joanne O'Sullivan
Biltmore’s curatorial team oversees the research and interpretation of the historic collections, interiors, and history of Biltmore Estate, including managing room restoration projects, exhibitions, tours, and publications. The collections management team oversees the cataloging, documentation and preservation of Biltmore collection objects.
Above, we see artifacts used by Biltmore Dairy delivery men that Associate Collections Manager Lenore Hardin is cataloging. The items include an insulated porch box (for leaving fresh milk on the customer’s doorstep), a bottle carrier (for carrying bottles to and from the truck), a stackable wire milk crate, and Biltmore Dairy milk bottles.
Here are a few more of their current projects…
While doing research, Curatorial Assistant Lori Garst found George Vanderbilt’s application to the New York chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution. His application was sponsored by his uncle Benjamin Kissam, the brother of his mother, Maria Louisa Kissam Vanderbilt.
From the desk of Biltmore’s Collections Manager, Laura Overbey: These strips of wallpaper came from the bedroom of Mrs. King, Biltmore’s longtime housekeeper. It’s one of the unrestored rooms guests can visit on the Behind-the-Scenes Guided Upstairs-Downstairs Tour.
Curatorial Assistant Lori Garst has seen more Vanderbilt family photos than just about anyone. As part of her job cataloging the 9,000+ photos in Biltmore’s collection, she has learned to recognize family members by face. On her desk, a picture of George Vanderbilt’s sister Lila and little George and Lila as children in the 1860s.
Read our blogs on Biltmore’s Archival and Conservation team to see what other projects are underway at Biltmore.
I have three dresses circa 1850s we think from Vanderbilt estate and want to talk to someone about donating them.
Hi Cheryl! Feel free to connect with our Museum Services team directly at museumservices@biltmore.com.
My grandparents worked at the Biltmore around 1916 and my aunt was born there. Who do I contact to add their names to the history? My grandfather was a blacksmith and my grandmother was a maid.
I would love to be somehow involved with the curatorial program @ the Bilmore.