Presentation to the city today of the Rodin Museum, by the widow of Jules E. Masthaum, developed into a remarkable and magnificent tribute to the late philanthropist and theatre magnate, founder of the Stanley Company of America.
The institution, an architectural gem gracing the Parkway, not far from the city’s notable art museum, contains priceless works of the great French sculptor.
A distinguished gathering was present, and international importance was lent the event by the presence of M. Paul Claudel, French Ambassador to the United States. He extolled the virtues of the donor and, as a surprise climax, presented the widow, Mrs. Etta Gimbel Mastbaum, with a high prize of honor, the Cross of the Chevalier Legion of Honor of France. With Mrs. Mastbaum were her daughters, Louisette, Margery and Elizabeth.
Mayor James J. Walker of New York and Mayor Harry A. Mackey of Philadelphia were among the other speakers. The latter, in accepting the museum from Mrs. Mastbaum and Morris Wolf, co-executor of the Mastbaum estate, who presided, said in part:
“Jules E. Mastbaum did much for his city and country which will stand as permanent tributes. Whatever he touched, was elevated and enriched. Under his inspiring leadership, theatre music became symphony orchestras, and he contributed advanced art for the masses. Philadelphia accepts this gift, and while saddened by the death of her eminent citizen, still rejoices at the privilege of having known him. The world today is richer because he lived. It will be our honor, our responsibility and our privilege to keep and maintain this edifice as one more sacred shrine of liberty, of charity, of free opportunity to the people of the United States.”
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
