You can own Marylou Whitney’s diamonds — for a price and a good cause
Want to own one of Marylou Whitney’s gowns?
Now is your chance.
To benefit the future home of the backstretch medical clinic at Saratoga Race Course, the Marylou Whitney Collection Auction will be held online starting July 27 and continue through Aug. 1, Whitney Day at Saratoga.
The social icon and horsewoman who maintained a residence on Bryan Station Road in Lexington but was also known as the Queen of Saratoga, died last year at the age of 93.
According to the press release, Whitney’s belongings “from diamonds to denim, and tchotchkes to chic couture,” offer “diverse purchasing opportunities for fans and friends.”
A website, www.marylouwhitneycollection.com, will go online Wednesday at 10 a.m. to preview items via a link to the auction site.
Among the approximately 1,500 pieces and items for sale:
▪ A diamond choker “especially dear to Marylou” that was a birthday gift from her husband John Hendrickson.
▪ Her 1985 red Jaguar XJ6 with only 28,449 original miles.
▪ Designer evening gowns.
▪ Couture ensembles and cocktail dresses by Bill Blass, Arnold Scassi, and Chanel.
▪ Evening purses by Judith Lieber Couture and Chanel.
▪ Fur coats; hats; vintage dresses; and designer scarves by Hermès and Tiffany.
“As I began the difficult task of going through Marylou’s personal items at each of our homes, she seemed to speak to me,” Hendrickson said, according to the release. “No one shared her blessings and good fortune more than Marylou. No one was more dedicated to helping charities than Marylou . . . and so the idea was born. Her spirit of giving will live on — Marylou’s personal items are going for a greater good.”
“Once again, Saratoga Hospital owes a debt of gratitude to Marylou — and to John, who chose us as a beneficiary of this auction,” Saratoga Hospital President and CEO Angelo Calbone said. “We know how much the backstretch workers meant to Marylou, and we are honored to play a key role in making sure they continue to receive the care they need and deserve.”
This story was originally published June 16, 2020 at 9:55 PM.
