If you've read A Lasting Impression (or any of the three BELMONT
MANSION
novels), you'll no doubt recall the statue of Ruth Gleaning by 19th century sculptor Randolph Rogers. The statue is prominently featured in each book.
Ruth Gleaning by Randolph Rogers
Ruth Gleaning is the only statue belonging to
Adelicia Acklen, mistress of Belmont, that has never left the Belmont
Mansion (Nashville, TN) since its initial placement in the home in the
19th century.
Because of Ruth's partial nudity, Adelicia's placement of the statue in the middle of the front hall (foyer) was quite a bold move for Victorian American Society. Then again, would one expect anything less of Adelicia?
But Ruth has grown untidy—might we even say "dirty"—through the years, bless her. And I'd love to see Belmont Mansion's Ruth Gleaning returned to its original splendor!
Because of Ruth's partial nudity, Adelicia's placement of the statue in the middle of the front hall (foyer) was quite a bold move for Victorian American Society. Then again, would one expect anything less of Adelicia?
But Ruth has grown untidy—might we even say "dirty"—through the years, bless her. And I'd love to see Belmont Mansion's Ruth Gleaning returned to its original splendor!
I'm partnering with Belmont Mansion to make this happen, and will match your donation dollar-for-dollar. Would you consider joining me in this endeavor? No amount is too small.
Current day Belmont Mansion in Nashville, TN
Meet Mark Brown, Executive Director of Belmont Mansion (30+ years and counting). I so appreciate Mark for his tireless work in answering my questions since our first meeting back in 2008, and for his dedication to restoring the mansion—and Adelicia's art—to what it was in her day.
More on Mark Brown and his legacy to Belmont Mansion here
Also, a huge thank you to Jerry Trescott, Belmont Mansion curator and architectural historian (pictured below with a group of readers who we luncheoned with at the mansion), who has also answered endless questions about the details of Adelicia's house and who is a kindred historical writer at heart. Thanks, Jerry. I appreciate our friendship.
Never been to Belmont Mansion?
I highly encourage you to plan a trip to Nashville to see the mansion for yourself. It's well worth it!
For more information on touring the Belmont Mansion, visit the official Belmont Mansion website. Or call the Belmont Mansion at 615-460-5459.
Nashville, TN
A Lasting Impression Tour
Contact: Kate Wilson
(Director of Operations)
615-460-5459
A Lasting Impression Tour
Contact: Kate Wilson
(Director of Operations)
615-460-5459
Nashville, TN
To Whisper Her Name Tour
To Whisper Her Name Tour
Contact: Mark James
(Group Sales Mgr)
615-356-0501
Carnton Plantation
Franklin, TN
Regular Carnton Tour
(615) 794-0903
