A Review: The Houses & Collections of Marjorie Merriweather Post & The Symbolic Rose for Valentine's

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A celebration of philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post’s passions for her residences and personal collections, reflecting centuries of some of the finest treasures in the world.
Marjorie Merriweather Post (1887-1973) was an extraordinary person, not only for being the head of a major corporation but also for overseeing elegant and well-run residences and amassing collections of astounding beauty. Including portraiture, imperial Russian tableware, Fabergé creations, stunning garments and jewelry, books, and rare objects in gold, silver, and porcelain, Post’s works of art were acquired with intelligence and acuity. She was inspired by past royal and aristocratic patrons as well as countries that she admired: France, Russia, England, and Austria.
This publication illustrates the evolution of Post’s collections and her interactions with dealers, artists, artisans, and architects. The backdrops for her treasures-residences in New York, the Adirondacks, Palm Beach, and Washington, D.C.-are depicted with period and newly commissioned photography. Recent scholarship focusing on the highlights of her trove of exquisite objects sheds new light on Post’s legacy as a twentieth-century collector.
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[@mcmccoy1184]

Marjorie Merriweather Post was truly one-of-a-kind. Her father, who brought 8-year-old Marjorie to board meetings at the original C. W. Post Cereal Company prepared her well for her future as CEO. Together with one of her husbands, she build a business empire: Birdseye Frozen Foods, Maxwell House Coffee, etc., etc. She enjoyed a good time and had a wicked sense of humor. Her business acumen was exceeded only by her philanthropy. Thank you for sharing this fabulous book!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for this comment. I have received many comments from people that seem to be bothered that she was born into a family of wealth. One viewer became so irate when I offered many examples of her exceptional abilities, that I had to ban his comments (which I rarely do).

[@mcmccoy1184]

You are more than welcome! C.W. Post, her father, was not a well person, nor a wealthy man. He went to Battle Creek, Michigan for the “cure” in the late 19th century. At that time, cereal was considered a health food. So, dozens and dozens of cereal companies sprung up in and around Battle Creek. Kellogg’s prevailed, but Post Cereals managed to build a profitable company with unique brands like Grape Nuts (which continues to this day). Marjorie was not born into wealth. Although her father was chronically ill, he persisted in learning and trying to develop better food products for his own health, as well as for profit. As I wrote previously, he took his little girl to board meetings. She was not very interested and would have liked to be playing with other children her age. Members of the board were not particularly happy with the presence of a child. After the meetings, C.W. Post would quiz her about what she had learned, any ideas she might have for the problems the company were facing, as well as her opinion of board members and their ideas. Decades later, employees of General Foods referred to their employer as “Generous Foods”, or simply, “The General”. A sometimes paternalistic organization that she created; knowing that if she treated people well, they would “perform, not just comply”. (For example, employees could travel with first-class tickets, IF they worked in the office until 5:00, and then traveled in the evening. Her goal wasn’t just getting a full day’s work out of an employee; rather, a more efficient, more effective team if everyone was in the office and available for meetings during regular office hours. If an employee wanted to travel during the daytime, that was an option, and it wasn’t questioned - of course, they traveled coach.)

[@karenreiter533]

I’m so glad you are feeling better and thank you for taking the time to post this enchanting video. Sending flowers and gratitude to you. 🌹

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate both the flowers and the gratitude, thank you! 🌷

[@Pinkroses-summer23]

Absolutely beautiful. Grand living and amongst exquisite craftsmanship. So refreshing to view such gorgeous pieces and luxury. Good people can lead lives such as hers.

[@melaniehancock5652]

My husband in 1972 used to walk past the Post mansion with surfboard under his arm. He told me about it. Is now Mar-a- Lago, Trumps home.

[@thetartantopiary]

Wow- that’s a great story! It was featured a lot in the book. She converted it into an occupational therapy center for convalescent soldiers during World War II. So may details in this book. I really enjoyed it.

[@JackMason-oq8lf]

Mara Go Go is one of the tackiest houses in America. Mrs Post had tons of money, but she was bankrupt on taste.

[@ninamelsted8702]

Stunning view of Marjorie Merriweather Post punctuated by your personal treat. Wishing you good health dear lady.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you very much and I appreciate your well wishes. It was a tough 2 weeks!

[@sherrycatanese4312]

Mary this book looks so enchanting! What a dear heart you have sending love to others with the joy of a bouquet of such beauty! The language of flowers is all but forgotten, so refreshing to hear again. God bless you & hope you feel yourself soon💖

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for such a thoughtful comment. My heart is blessed! 💗

[@frankieb4587]

Happy to hear your feeling better Mary! ❤from Arizona! And just wanted to say, thank you for creating this channel! Can’t get enough!

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad you enjoy the channel and thanks for letting me know! 💗

[@buickinvicta288]

Hi Sweetie. I'm a retired NYC and surrounding florist. Yellow roses are jealousy. I do have the book. I went through all of the rose stuff. I went to the market. As an aside. I am second generation Russian/Ukrainian. I have in my possession Fabrage and very good old coral. Watch Alexandra Tolstoy. I collect everything I can get. If you want to know about flowers, look into Columbia and Ecuador. It was a massive take over. Holland is still the best as far as I know. Back in the day, roses and orchids were grown in NY, Carter put an end to local greenhouses. Energy crisis put many out.

[@thetartantopiary]

I had heard that yellow roses also meant jealousy but the florist I spoke with and the "Martha Stewart Living" article failed to mention that, so I just assumed I was mistaken. Thank you for that and the other info about flowers. If I do any more content about flowers- I'll ask you! 😉

[@2atthemill190]

How thoughtful of you to give your single neighbors a gift bouquet for Valentine's Day. What a sweet gesture. We have been to DC a few times, but I was unaware of Post's home and collections there. Truly, it is a place I'd like to visit. Happy Valentine's Day! ❤️

[@thetartantopiary]

I've never been to Hillwood Estate either. It is on the list for my next visit to D.C.. Thanks for watching and Happy Valentine's Day to you also!

[@sandrabergquist1684]

It's a beautiful, fascinating place to visit. Her collections are amazing. Such beauty everywhere...

[@jamesallison4875]

Glad you’re feeling better! Your videos are always totally enjoyable. Thanks for your efforts. And have a lovely Valentines.

[@thetartantopiary]

I hope you have a wonderful Valentines as well! I always appreciate your comments.

[@floralschool]

Wonderful video of a remarkable woman. Take care and thank you for sharing.❤

[@YiddishMoment]

Mrs Post was our neighbour in Old Brookville on Long Island. We lived almost next door to her property, which is today CW Post College. When she moved to the Wasington area, she named her new home there Hillwood after the original home on Long Island. My grandfather and Marjorie were best friends!

[@davindersingh9417]

Spectacular

[@rosariopaiz6158]

So glad you are feeling better stay safe, well .

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you! 💗

[@jenh9361]

You're an absolute Delight... With a very Beautiful kind Heart!!! Thank for taking the time to remember those who need a minute, now and then! So, often they are forgotten in the hustle and bustle of others lives! Thank you 😘 💕

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you- We had five arrangements and were able to deliver four of them. Most of the recipients are elderly neighbors and although the day was dark and rainy, their gratitude made up for the dreary day. Thanks for the sweet comment. Happy Valentine's Day!

[@TheFairwinds1]

"HILLWOOD" is almost spiritual...her persona captures you.. it is truly amazing. The orchid house, the magnificent hazelwood tree, etc. Thank you for your video! franki

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching. I'm shocked that I haven't been to this estate, but I will go, and soon!

[@kimclarke5018]

Hill wood is beautiful. If your ever in DC area it’s a must see…

[@mizzmolly7649]

I visited the Post mansion in Washington DC in 2020. Ah, the plate collections! It was interesting how back in those days the kitchen was functional and for "the help." It was an underwhelming basic kitchen. It was also nice to see some belongings of her daughter, the late actress Dina Merrill.

[@vickeypierce293]

Thank you for sharing this book about a beautiful smart woman who had exquisite taste! So sorry you had Covid. Please get well soon, but since I work in an E.R. I can tell you the weakness last for a long time....keep pushing yourself alittle more each day.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching! I appreciate your well wishes and advice. I hope you stay safe in the E.R. ❤️

[@sharonchilds3871]

I enjoyed learning the history of Mrs Post. My God what taste she had! Stunning collections! Hopefully I’ll get to visit one day and see all that beauty up close. Im happy you’re feeling better, my sister just found out that she has Covid. Thanks for yet another great review. Oh, the flowers are so pretty 😊

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm so glad you enjoyed it. Her life was a lot of fun to read about. She had great parents that influenced her positively. Keep an eye on your sister. I hope she fares well and I hope you don't get it. Thanks for watching.

[@stphenriddle3788]

I absolutely love watching your reviews. So glad you are feeling better. Happy Valentine's Day!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for that lovely comment. Happy Valentine's Day to you as well.

[@judithpresgrove739]

Thank you for your review of this wonderful book. The history and beauty are so exquisite! What a life this woman lived! Thank you, also, for the little lesson on the meaning of Roses and their colors. Love your channel and so glad you are feeling better. ❤ from Georgia

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, this was a great book. I had no idea of her business skills and extent of her collections. I appreciate your comment!

[@dulcerush735]

Glad you’re feeling better. Happy Valentine’s Day ❤ God bless, Dulce

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you so much, Dulce, and Happy Valentine's Day to you!

[@sisterrabbit9115]

Great production, great video. I found the photo of her childhood bedroom so fascinating…!

[@chrisogrady4956]

Fantastic book! Also, your bouquets are beautiful, so thoughtful and lovely. Know the recipients will be extremely delighted. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!

[@thetartantopiary]

They were delivered yesterday and well received- we even got some cookies and hot chocolate from 2 of the neighbors. Thanks for watching and I hope you have a happy Valentine's Day also!

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

I'm happy that you feel better, lot of water and aloe ...internal healing. The Book Mrs. Post is beautiful collection...and the floral arrangment very pretty. The meaning of each rose color is a great info. Thank you!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, Maria! I appreciate the tip. I'm glad you enjoyed the video.

[@vintagewidow]

I’m so happy you’re feeling better! This book could’ve been written about my Paternal Grandmother. Except, she spent the family fortune, darn it 😉. Her father wildcatted the first Oil Well in his state. The stories and the pictures from her life remind me of this book! She (my grandmother) was so glamorous in photos I’ve seen. I’m glad she (and her 2 sisters) spent it all…I would’ve never learned the thrill of a bargain if they hadn’t. 🤭 Anyway, such interesting lives…

[@thetartantopiary]

I love that story. Treasure your photographs- my great grandfather invented the first oil burning tobacco curer. Tobacco was big money in the region I am from. His home had a helicopter landing pad on the top floor. I only have a few pictures as my uncle became a little greedy (with everything). Thanks for the comment.

[@vintagewidow]

@@thetartantopiary Love your story too! A lot of what I have are actually newspaper clippings/articles. Every time she did ANYTHING there was a story in the paper. There’s one of her holding my father when he was about 2. Something about Socialites and their children, their picture was in the middle and large while the others were small and on the edge. (La-di-da) My Dad was into genealogy the last 5 or so years of his life, both his family and my mothers. Always thinking there’s more time…I didn’t listen or ask many questions. 😞 I have a folder he gave me related to my Maternal side. But not one for his side. Live and learn, but I sure wish I’d listened better. 😊. Keep getting better…We NEED you out here in KZbin watching land! There’s not another channel like yours.🌹

[@marialinares7809]

Beautiful flowers ❤ thanks

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you, I was a little intimidated by mixing the colors and using no greenery, but I did like the outcome.

[@catladynj]

Wow. That's some story. Thank you.

[@charlavinyard4203]

So glad you’re well and that stinky COVID is in the rear view mirror! Love your Valentine rose bouquets! ❤

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you Charla. I had to laugh at the description "stinky COVID", but you are right, it was indeed! Thanks for the well wishes and I hope you have a sweet Valentine's Day. ❤️

[@cheerstothegoodlife8023]

Get well soon dear Madame, you have beautiful contents on your videaos. Hello from the Philippines...

[@thetartantopiary]

Thanks for watching and I appreciate the well wishes.

[@johnmyers7008]

Mary, I'm so sorry you've been sick with the dreaded Covid. The first strain put me in the hospital for over a month. I was on a ventilator for 9 days... The doctors thought I was going to die. Please take care of yourself, and don't over due. Thank you for another wonderful review with its breathtaking images and story!

[@thetartantopiary]

John, I am so sorry about your experience with COVID. I really had a minor case comparatively. I can’t imagine being in the hospital for a month. The lingering fatigue is really the only thing I’m dealing with. How are you doing now? I’m so glad you recovered and thanks for sharing your story.

[@johnmyers7008]

@@thetartantopiary Well, this month marks the two year anniversary of getting out of the hospital. Before the illness I couldn't have imagined that kind of hospital stay either. I was very healthy. My stamina is probably around 85% back to where I was before... which I'm very thankful. I was very glad to see that you are already back working in your garden, pruning your hydrangeas. Just please don't overdo! :)

[@suzieq2493]

Thank you for sharing a part of America's history. Lovely video. Glad to hear you are feeling better

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate that. Thanks for watching.

[@psin0373]

So sorry you contracted Covid. I, too, have been really ill for a month but never tested positive for Covid. You're such a kind, thoughtful neighbor; your neighbors must adore you! In addition, thank you so much for the interesting information regarding the color of roses & sharing the delightful arrangements. I'm going to steal this idea and do the same. Happy Valentine's Day and can't wait for the next video post.

[@thetartantopiary]

I am sorry you have been feeling bad. A month is a long time! I have never had my energy zapped like this before. Don't push yourself if you can help it. I hope you feel better soon and have a sweet Valentine's Day!

[@janiceminuto1707]

Mary, I am happy that you have recovered and are making beautiful bouquets for your neighbors, what a thoughtful thing to do. 🙏 Prayers for your continued health.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for that, I am feeling much better.

[@pamelaprivette5361]

So glad you are feeling better!---Really enjoyed your segment on the roses---And the heart shaped pepperoni slices was a great idea! Continue to take care of yourself as you get stronger! Love & Prayers

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for the love and prayers! I'm so glad that you enjoyed the video. It brings me happiness to be the recipient of your kind comment. You are a sweet spirit and please know that I appreciate it!

[@pamelaprivette5361]

@@thetartantopiary You are so welcome---may Spirit bring you to your highest good!!

[@judyderieux8484]

So happy your doing much better. So wonderful to spend time with you. Thank-you✨

[@Linda-pw8gx]

Really enjoyed this, thank you!

[@Grandstreet1]

I attended C.W. Post College in Greenvale NY Long Island' Gold Coast. It was the site of her English Tudor estate hunting lodge used only rarely. Later E.F. Hutton built homes for his children on the property.

[@thetartantopiary]

I read about this college in the book. Thank you for commenting. The photos of that lodge blew me away. I hope your time there was nice. I imagine it must have been beautiful!

[@francesgrumblatt3420]

Who says” money can’t buy happiness” it sure gets you lovely things to contribute to happiness!

[@Pinkroses-summer23]

I agree

[@pcrice-lr2dn]

Would love this book,I have always been fascinated by her life Thanks for sharing 💗🌿🍃

[@thetartantopiary]

Many people discount her business acumen and her generous philanthropic acts because she was born into wealth. This book does a good job at illustrating the wisdom and restraint she had, not only to keep the wealth, but to more than double it.

[@traceygartrell3419]

Thank you for sharing

[@lindaortolano7837]

Hello Mary, I was so sorry to hear you were not feeling well but I am so glad you are feeling better. Thank you yet again for another great review. What an interesting, elegant, charmed life Ms. Post led. Her homes and yacht were out of this world! How thoughtful of you to remember your neighbors on Valentine's Day. The arrangements were beautiful! Funny Mary.....while Ms. Post might have had a large extravagant beautiful home....it's the warmth and beauty of your home I feel every time I see it! Happy Valentines Day!! Hugs! :)

[@thetartantopiary]

Happy Valentine’s Day to you! Thanks for the well wishes and I am grateful to be feeling so much better. I hope all is well on your end. Take care and I always appreciate your thoughtful comments.

[@rickdejean4649]

What a treat

[@glendalafont1561]

Loved this video.

[@thetartantopiary]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the comment.

[@emiliebova]

How fascinating! I would love to cruise on Sea Cloud. A woman with beauty, brains, energy, generosity,and excellent taste and character. Marjorie Post seemed to have it all! Inspirational.

[@Al-cd2bk]

Wow what an historical journey ! Love your narrated journey and those beautifully coloured roses your arranged .

[@thetartantopiary]

Yes, I enjoyed this book immensely. Thanks for watching, I'm glad you enjoyed it!

[@s.barlow7062]

The Hillwood Estate is Magnificent! The dinning room pictured on the cover of this book will take your breath away. Just gorgeous. Thank you for sharing in this video.

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for watching!

[@emiliagarcia6868]

Beautiful home 🏡 and decor ❣️ Love the rose arrangements ❤️❤️

[@rebeccamartin465]

This always brings me so much joy! Thank you for the hard work and excellence you put into every program!

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you for the sweet comment. It makes me happy.

[@maryschlotter108]

Such a lovely book. I could sense from your description that she was like Lady Mary with her business skills and beauty.I hope to visit Hillwood this Spring. I attended C.W.Post college in NY. I loved the horse stables on the property. I’m sorry to hear you were unwell. Recovery takes time so be gentle with yourself. Getting out in the garden is always restorative. I am a floral designer, my second career . One of my favorite designers has a book “ The Language of Flowers”. By Shane Connolly. He did the flowers for Prince William and Princess Kates wedding. I think it’s always a wonderful idea to create florals with the meaning behind them. The flowers for the late Queen Elizabeths funeral were made from the gardens of the royal family and were selected for their meaning.I especially loved the use of myrtle which had been used in her wedding bouquet as well, a symbol of all things love, good luck, and prosperity. So thoughtful of you to make these pretty arrangements for your neighbors.

[@thetartantopiary]

What a great place to study. I was unaware that the flowers for Queen Elizabeth's funeral were chosen from the gardens of the Royal Family. The meaning and thought behind these arrangements are fascinating. Thanks for sharing that. I hope you have a splendid Valentine's Day! 💗

[@demetramoon7174]

Glad you are better! Vitamin B-100 helps with the fatigue. Thank you for your videos. They are very creatively inspiring 🙏

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate the recommendation and will definitely take the B-100. Thanks for watching and commenting.

[@serena6477]

I love your channel!

[@thetartantopiary]

This makes me happy, Thank you for watching and letting me know!

[@carolpipher4839]

🌿 ~Just beautiful! ♥️

[@thetartantopiary]

Thank you!

[@JJ33438]

I am happy you are feeling better love the Post book and the roses what a nice idea!

[@christineoneill9307]

A lovely video! Thank you - I’ve reserved the book at the library and suddenly want to buy flowers! 😀

[@thetartantopiary]

Great! I was shocked at the low prices of the roses. Trader Joe's and Whole Foods are my "go to" for flowers,

[@christineoneill9307]

@@thetartantopiary I was actually going to ask you where you bought the flowers. Thx for the tip!

[@TheFiown]

My favorite bouquet to give was tiny yellow roses, small blue iris' and gysophila, I never though of giving myself one ! Funny thing !

[@thetartantopiary]

This is a sweet reflection on your personality. I do give myself bouquets, but what I've learned is that I receive as much happiness (if not more) by giving flowers to others. 💐

[@user-ed5ku7pv7p]

Thank you! I have her biography and love all books from Rizzoli so this is now on my list :)

[@annanorth7997]

What an amazing book review! I had orange roses at my wedding almost 40 years ago. They were so beautiful.

[@thetartantopiary]

For some reason I am drawn to orange roses. I like to mix then with ivory!

[@elizabethlara4070]

Thank you for the review of such an interesting woman and collection of fine and historical items. I added a visit to our itinerary this spring to Mrs. Post residence mentioned on your video, I k oe it will be something I will enjoy! I am so glad you're feeling better and recovering from Covid. It will take time, but at least you are now gaining your energy. 🤗 By the way, you are so thoughtful yo prepare the beautiful floral arrangements for your neighbors! I did the same this past Christmas for our neighbors. Happy Valentines!💝

[@thetartantopiary]

I'm sure you will enjoy it. I am in NC and not terribly far from Washington DC ( 5 hour drive). I should go more often. I have never been to Hillwood Estate and Museum BUT it is on my list and I hope to visit this summer. Thanks for watching and Happy Valentine's Day to you as well! 💗

[@CharlotteFairchild]

Her home reminds me of The High Museum. There is no furniture in the Booth Western Museum.

[@apacur]

Are there any interviews online with Mrs Post?

[@MariaReyes-te7lk]

It's 2:23am I'm prayering for you and your family.God is OUR source..rest on God arm..everything will be all right...is then process of covid..salms 91 Amen

[@thetartantopiary]

I appreciate your prayers and am so grateful for your kind thoughtfulness.

[@s.barlow7062]

She had one child. A daughter, actress Lee Merriweather.

[@TheFiown]

So many collections like this have been assembled for different reasons but you can tell that this one has been acquired piece by piece with personal taste as the driver. Does the desk still reside in the museum ? Thank you xo

[@thetartantopiary]

Yes, the video of the desk was provided by Hillwood Museum. They do have it on display in the French Drawing Room.

[@TheFiown]

@@thetartantopiary Thank you for this and I just found the book new on eBay for 38 GBP ! Can't wait as I love reading such books and never consider them as just images. xo

[@evelynbyrd4961]

It's very wonderful that Mrs Merriweather Post was a powerful and filthy rich woman, after the murder of the Russian Royal family and the slow destruction of the Russian motherland . The Bolshevics found poverty distasteful, thereby they rifled the royal palaces for treasures to sell. Thank G_D, she was there to buy up everything her $ could buy. Thanks for this presentation, it was very enjoyable...e

[@user-gt8st3qf4o]

I would have liked to have known her.

[@terriqueen3315]

Pleasant voice..

[@kennethcrawford3888]

I wished it had more interiors shots instead of miscellaneous photos of specific items. Looks nice thought ---congrats

[@thetartantopiary]

I had the same thought, and to be honest, my curiosity about the interior of her homes is one reason I ordered this book. It is, however, full of information I found to be extremely interesting. Thanks for watching.

[@chuckspoke]

Shopkeeper must have been hobby shop owner. Small effort would have reap a large reward.

[@AndersBu]

Warw🎉

[@carollittle4056]

Unbelievable

[@francesgrumblatt3420]

All that “ stuff” for what?