Courtesy The Hyde
The daughters of Samuel and Eliza Jane Pruyn grew up surrounded by the effects of their father’s generosity and admiring his philanthropic spirit. Mr. Pruyn, the founder of Finch Paper, made significant contributions to the community in education, creation of a water system, and improved housing.
The Pruyn daughters, Charlotte Pruyn Hyde (1867-1963), Nell Pruyn Cunningham (1876-1962), and Mary Pruyn Hoopes (1870-1952), stayed close throughout their lives, pursuing their love of the arts and carrying on their family’s legacy of giving.
The Hyde Collection, 161 Warren St., Glens Falls, founded on Mrs. Hyde’s dedication to enriching lives with her art collection, has for years benefited from the Pruyn family descendants’ generosity and support. That continued when the museum announced that the Hoopes family has donated $50,000 to kick-start contributions to the annual gala, The Hyde’s biggest fundraising event of the year.
“The Hyde Collection is built on a foundation of giving,” said Kam Hoopes, Mary Hoopes’ great-grandson, on behalf of the family. “A legacy of philanthropy and passion for the arts have long supported the museum and kept the spirit of the Pruyn sisters alive.”
This year, the annual gala, “Celebrating Our Shared Legacy,” is centered on the rich history of the museum and its founding family. It takes place Friday, Oct. 6, and will be held in honor of former director Erin Coe and special guest Barbara L. Gordon, whose collection is featured in “A Shared Legacy: Folk Art in America.”
Donations and sponsorships support the Hyde in developing its exceptional education programs and exhibitions, and in caring for its collection.
“We want this gala to deliver strong financial support for the museum and its efforts, to secure its ability to enrich lives through the arts, and to continue to serve as an economic driver to the area’s economy,” said Anne Saile, interim director of the museum.
To donate, contact director of external affairs Tawn Malison at 518-792-1761, ext. 328 or tmalison@hydecollection.org, or visit hydecollection.org/donations.