From Pam Kyrka

A Visit with Isabella Stewart Gardner: America’s First Patroness of the Arts

April 24, 2022, at 2:00 PM

Known for her flamboyant manner and free-spirited ways, Isabella Stewart Gardner (1840 – 1924) became known as the first American “Patroness of the Arts.” The ambiance of her Back Bay salon at 150-152 Beacon Street inspired the creation of “Fenway Court,” an architecturally lavish backdrop for her significant collection of Italian Renaissance art. Fenway Court, known today as the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum, was willed to the City of Boston for the “education and enjoyment of the public forever,” and stands as a monument to her aesthetic sensibilities.

Jessa Piaia’s (above) character portrayals celebrate women of the past whose diverse lives span three centuries. In her poignant and inspiring dramatic vignettes, Jessa reveals the accomplishments, struggles, and contributions of these women to American history. Jessa depicts each woman’s life set against the historic events and issues of the day.

Jessa studied performance at London’s Oval House Theatre and graduated from the University of Massachusetts in Boston. Jessa currently works at Harvard University. She conducts most of her historical research at the Schlesinger Library at Radcliffe Institute which specializes in the history of women in America. 

The above information was taken from Jessa’s website: http://www.womeninhistoryprograms.com/about.html

We fervently hope that this program will be held in the Holliston Historical Society barn on Washington Street, in person, with refreshments to follow.  We had first planned this program for April of 2020 when COVID struck.  We look forward to finally welcoming Jessa to the Holliston Historical Society!