Old Westbury Gardens Extends WWI Centennial Exhibit

Guest Speakers to offer insight into the war effort from the perspective of Long Islanders and former estate owner, John S. Phipps

Old Westbury Gardens announced today that it will extend its existing World War I exhibit, The Great War: Portraits of Privilege, Duty and Sacrifice. The exhibit, which launched in March 2018, was designed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the end of the war. In addition to the exhibit, Old Westbury Gardens will present a series of speakers to explore the War’s effect upon the lives of Americans, rolling-out The Great War: Lecture Series, beginning Saturday, October 7, 2018, at 2p.m.

The Great War: Lecture Series will offer interesting insights into the war effort from the perspective of Long Islanders and former estate owner, John S. Phipps and his family. Presented by several high-profile academics, professors and historians, the lecture series is yet another way Old Westbury Gardens focuses on providing guests with a unique and immersive historical experience.

“We’re thrilled to extend our WWI exhibit, which has had a terrific reaction from our visitors who enjoy viewing rare archival material and learning about the stories of duty and sacrifice among Long Islanders who participated in the War,” said Nancy Costopulos, Old Westbury Gardens CEO. “We are also pleased that we can expand on the exhibit, by launching our brand new lecture series, which is sure to create an opportunity for guests to engage with in-depth topics surrounding WWI.”

Long Island historian and Guest Curator for the Garden’s WWI exhibit, Richard Welsh, will lead a lecture on the role of Long Island’s business and political leaders during the Great War on Sunday, October 7 at 2p.m.

For those who want to learn about the social change of men and women during the War, come view a presentation from Libby O’Connell, commissioner of the U.S. World War I Centennial Commission on Sunday, October 21 at 2p.m.

Jeffery Sammons, professor of History at New York University, will cover the 369th Regiment and their American quest for equality on Sunday, November 4 at 2p.m.

Paul Hunchak, Director of Public Programs at Old Westbury Gardens, will present the correspondence between the Phipps family, their friends and charities on Sunday, November 11 at 2p.m.

There is no better way to learn about the historical significance of Old Westbury Gardens and Long Island during this great time of conflict. All talks are included with admission and will be held in the Barn at Orchard Hill. In addition to the lecture series, guests can still view The Great War: Portraits of Privilege, Duty and Sacrifice, featuring photographs, letters and a variety of historic artifacts showcasing the loyalty, service and sacrifice of Long Island families who participated in the war effort.

Old Westbury Gardens is also inviting Long Islanders to share personal artifacts and stories from family members who participated in World War I through Sunday, November 18th. For more information about the Old Westbury Gardens and upcoming events, visit the website: www.oldwestburygardens.org.