Ellen Libby Lawrence, the sole surviving grandchild of J.R. Libby, visited the Mansion in late August with her son Franklin, a former Mansion trustee. A generous supporter of Victoria Mansion for decades, Ellen has donated original Morse and Libby objects and provided information about the Libby family that is critical to our interpretation of the Mansion. The daughter of Ralph G. and Hattie Libby, Ellen grew up in Portland’s West End. After her mother’s death she was instrumental in arranging the donation of original Mansion furnishings that were in her family home, including the Herter parlor suite and center table and the dining room furniture.
Among her gifts are the large Bohemian glass vase in the Parlor, the Libby family Bible, a Red Bedroom chair, the bronze figure of a blacksmith , and the delightful marble sculpture “Reproof.” Thanks to Franklin Lawrence’s generosity, Mansion visitors see the original Herter hall table and Red Bedroom dressing table. Ellen lived in Falmouth for many years with her late husband Donald; she is now a full-time Florida resident. We thank the Lawrences for their extraordinary generosity and commitment to the Mansion and look forward to seeing them again in the future!
