Hillwood House—formally Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens—is a neo‑Georgian mansion in Washington, D.C., once owned by heiress and collector Marjorie Merriweather Post. Today, it stands as a premier decorative arts museum showcasing her extraordinary collection of Russian imperial treasures, 18th‑century French art, and exquisite jewelry.
From the Icon Room displaying Fabergé eggs and Russian chalices to the French Drawing Room adorned with Sèvres porcelain, each room shares a story of Post’s refined taste and global influence (Wikipedia).
Uncovering Hillwood’s Rich History and Advantages for Visitors
Hillwood emerged in the mid‑1950s when Post renovated Arbremont into a 36‑room estate tailored for entertaining and showcasing art. By opening it to the public in 1977, Post ensured that her art, greenhouses, and gardens would be shared—and remain a resource for education and cultural enrichment.
It’s perfect for:
- Art & history enthusiasts seeking immersive experiences with original Fabergé pieces, tapestries, and royal décor.
- Event planners & hosts looking for inspiration from Post’s legendary entertaining style.
- Garden lovers & educators drawn to the estate’s 25 acres of formal gardens, greenhouse orchids, and Japanese‑style landscapes (Hillwood Estate, Business Insider, Hillwood Estate).
How Hillwood Products Enhance Your Home and Lifestyle
In the museum shop—both in‑person and online—delight awaits in curated items that echo Hillwood’s elegance (Hillwood Estate). The profits directly support Hillwood’s programming and operations.
Benefits of Bringing Home Hillwood-Inspired Products
- Cultural resonance: Each item reflects Hillwood’s Russian, French, or horticultural heritage.
- Educational tie-in: A purchasable companion to experiences like the Icon Room or Gardens tour.
- Visual appeal: Stylish home décor, accessories, or gifts that carry historical significance.
- Give back with purpose: Purchases fund exhibitions, preservation, and public outreach.
Featured Hillwood Shop Picks – Real-World Examples
A Garden for All Seasons: Marjorie Merriweather Post’s Hillwood
A beautifully illustrated hardcover coffee‑table book ($20). Dive deep into the estate’s horticultural history and seasonal planting.
Benefits & Use Case: Ideal for garden lovers or historians—offers rich visuals and practical advice for creating elegant gardens inspired by Hillwood’s own four seasons.
Buy Now: Buy “A Garden for All Seasons”
Faberge Egg known as Catherine the Great Egg
Catherine the Great Egg Mug
A porcelain mug adorned with the iconic Catherine the Great Fabergé egg design ($11.95).
Benefits & Use Case: A refined delight for collectors and tea lovers. Start mornings with a cup of history, a tribute to Hillwood’s Russian treasures.
Buy Now: Buy Catherine the Great Egg Mug
Hummingbird Brooch
A delicate enamel and crystal brooch in the shape of a hummingbird—$140.
Benefits & Use Case: Accessory with artistic elegance. Great for gifts, adding a garden‑inspired flourish to blouses, jackets, or scarves while supporting Hillwood’s mission.
Buy Now: Buy Hummingbird Brooch
Large Faberge Type Jewelry Box
Jewelry Box with Fabergé Design
An elegant keepsake box inspired by Hillwood’s Fabergé collection.
Benefits & Use Case: Provides a functional and stylish solution for storing precious items—perfect for collectors of jewelry, watches, or heirlooms.
Buy Now: Buy Fabergé Jewelry Box
Paper Dolls 19 coloring page
Amanda Coloring Paper Doll Kit
A creative activity kit featuring paper dolls inspired by Hillwood’s fashion archives—$29.95.
Benefits & Use Case: Ideal for families and educators. Great for teaching children about historic fashion, creativity, and story‑telling.
Buy Now: Buy Amanda Coloring Paper Doll Kit
Why These Products Matter
- Educational impact: Each product ties back to Hillwood’s rich collection—be it Russian imperial art, French decorative arts, or horticulture.
- Emotional connection: Every purchase evokes Post’s legacy—an invitation to partake in her love for culture, beauty, and conservation.
- Supporting sustainability: Profits fund Hillwood’s curated exhibitions, educational tours, and conservation efforts (Hillwood Estate, Hillwood Estate, Hillwood Estate, Hillwood Museum Shop, Hillwood Museum Shop).
Solving Problems with Hillwood Purchases
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Gifts lack meaningful context? | Choose items grounded in history & artistry. |
| Educational activities needed? | The coloring doll kit merges creativity and learning. |
| Need quality stylish home décor? | Jewelry boxes, brooches, book mug styled after museum pieces. |
Step-by-Step: How to Buy Hillwood Products
- Browse: Visit the Hillwood Museum Shop online.
- Select: Choose “ship to home” or “in‑store pickup” during checkout (Smithsonian Magazine, Hillwood Estate).
- Apply Discounts: Members and military receive savings—enter code Military10 for veterans (Hillwood Estate).
- Secure Payment & Shipping: Flat‑rate US shipping or free pickup.
- Support: Know 100% of profits benefit Hillwood’s mission (Hillwood Museum Shop, Hillwood Estate).
FAQ
Q1: Are Hillwood shop items available internationally?
A: Yes. The online shop ships internationally (fees vary), or you can pick up in person if visiting Washington, D.C.
Q2: Can I visit Hillwood before deciding?
A: Absolutely. Plan a visit, enjoy the house and gardens, then browse the museum shop onsite or online (MaggieBlue).
Q3: Do I need to be a member to receive discounts?
A: Members enjoy exclusive discounts, but non‑members can still shop at full price. Military receive a 10% discount with code Military10 online .
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