The Port Royal Society numbers over 100 members - generous, enthusiastic and commited donors who want to maintain Winterthur as a place of inspiration for future generations.

Jay on the Du Pont Dining Room Porch, Winterthur

Jay C., Winterthur Program in Early American Culture Class of 1966, is a noted author, auction specialist, museum professional, and American art scholar. As an historian interested in the future, Jay wanted to find a way to benefit Winterthur years from now.

"Winterthur didn't just "happen". It is the product of great vision, intense planning, and careful nurturing. These were the qualities that Henry Francis du Pont brought to his landscape and garden projects as well as to the collections and the museum. All of us who love Winterthur and have benefited from H. F. du Pont's legacy have an obligation to continue this good work and ensure that this vision will continue. I have done this by making Winterthur a significant beneficiary of my estate."

Dr. Richard W. and Dr. Sandra H.W in the Winterthur Library

Richard and Sandy were looking for a way to benefit Winterthur while taking advantage of appreciated stock. “The gift annuity was an attractive option for us, since it provides us with a fixed income for life while avoiding some capital gains tax. The fact that we also received a nice charitable deduction was an added bonus!

“But most important, it benefits Winterthur. We value so many aspects of Winterthur—particularly the library and the silver collection, so giving back seems perfectly appropriate for us. And it was quick, simple, and arranged with plenty of assistance from Winterthur!”

Hope Y. in front of a cucumber magnolia tree planted in memory of Hope’s father, a longtime member of the Friends of Winterthur

“Winterthur has been a part of my family for generations. My grandparents were friends of H. F. and Ruth Wales, and even attended the wedding of their daughter Pauline Louise in 1938. I grew up hearing stories about Winterthur – Daddy was an overnight guest here before it was a museum, and Mum would bowl here in what is now Shop Lane. They instilled in me an appreciation for Winterthur that has grown through my own association.

My daughter and I lived on the estate for a long time. She and I enjoyed the garden and my dogs loved to run in the fields. Looking back on my nearly 25 years as an employee, I realize that Winterthur has been good to me. Including Winterthur in my estate plan seemed like the best way to give something back. It is rewarding to know that someday Winterthur will benefit by my actions.”

Stephanie and Charlie F. in the Textiles and Needlework Gallery at Winterthur

Stephanie and Charlie F. have a long-standing, extensive connection to Winterthur. Both are graduates of Winter Institute and members of the Friends of Winterthur and The Henry Francis du Pont Collectors Circle. Charlie has served as President of the Friends of Winterthur and as a trustee. Stephanie worked with the Textile Department in organizing Winterthur’s first needlework symposium in 2002.

“We both consider Winterthur to be an important part of our continuing education, much like any other alma mater. We have attended numerous symposia and special workshops and have spent intellectually stimulating days on an academic tour of New England with Professor Brock Jobe. These programs have broadened our comprehension of American material culture and they have sharpened our ‘eye for excellence.’ Henry Francis du Pont’s greatest legacy may well be the extraordinary educational opportunities Winterthur provides, and we are among his many beneficiaries. Continuing interaction with Winterthur’s curatorial staff over more than twenty years has expanded our areas of interest and enabled us to make significant improvements in our own collections.

“Winterthur has given us a great deal, and we in turn wish to continue our support after our lifetimes. We hope that by bequeathing both funds and special objects from our collections, we can assist Winterthur in providing to future generations the same excitement and expertise that we have enjoyed.”