Building on a Legacy of Giving

By M.E. Purnell

For the first 18 years of my life, The Huntington was just a blip on my radar. But after moving to Los Angeles in 2011, that small blip slowly moved from the periphery to a central part of my life.

My grandmother, an avid gardener and artist, and my grandfather, a man committed to investing in human capital through education, humanities, and the arts, had built a flourishing collaborative relationship with The Huntington long before I ever set foot on the grounds.

At their behest, I began my journey with The Huntington. At first, I would simply come to the grounds and wander through the Library or the Desert Garden. But at every new turn, and with every new visit I discovered something new. As a confused and ever-developing college student, The Huntington provided insight into all my interests including ceramics, American history, and Chinese culture.

Now as an aunt, I find myself in the Children's Garden. As a tour guide for visiting friends, I find myself standing in front of The Blue Boy. As an ally to the LGBTQ community, I find myself attending the annual Isherwood-Bachardy Lecture Series. As a medical student, I find myself in the History of Medicine exhibit. As someone from a small town I find myself sitting quietly in the Bonsai Garden. And finally, as the granddaughter of two extraordinary folks, I find myself yearning to learn more about and become more involved with The Huntington both as a patron and as a behind the scenes collaborator.

If you would like to become a part of The Huntington's history, consider making a gift for our future. Contact Cris Lutz at 626.405.2212 or clutz@huntington.org to get started.