Vivian Patterson – A Reminiscence
Everyone who knew Vivian was greatly saddened last week when we learned of her most untimely death. Vivian had been generously offering her expert guidance to the WHM for almost a year. It all started, as so much does around here, in the Stop and Shop. I ran into her as we both peered at the well-supplied frozen meat counter. “Vivian,” I said, “It is so great to see you!” And, I meant it. I’d been away from home for roughly 5 years and to be sure, my witty acquaintance Vivian was one of the things I’d missed. She was so smart and her keen intelligence and wide ranging knowledge and love — and I do mean LOVE – for art, history, and collections care was obvious to anyone who spent time with her. She was modest though, and never pontificated about anything even on those occasions when she certainly might have. Her wry sense of humor was almost as legendary as those of her mentors Whitney Stoddard and Lane Faison. She seemed to share their intuitive sense of playfulness along with their deep understanding about what mattered in the world of art and museums. The same fond twinkle of the eye that had made them great teachers, made Vivian a great curator, colleague, and friend. Over the meat counter, I’d said,” Vivian! I need your help! The Williamstown Historical Museum needs your help! ” She readily agreed to see what she could do and stopped by the museum many times in the past year to work with our Director Sarah Currie and to attend Collections Committee meetings with John Hyde. She wasn’t scheduled to join the board until this spring but had, in fact, begun her work the minute she was called upon. I was greatly looking forward to spending much more time with her and feel bereft, as, I am sure, everyone who knew her must, at having lost this opportunity. We will all deeply miss her – our uniquely gifted and much admired friend, Vivian Patterson. Pat Leach President, WHM