This is the fourth and final program in the Great Homes and Gardens lecture series.

Architectural historian Victoria Kastner will speak about her new book, Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect, which provides the first in-depth look at the life of Hearst Castle’s pioneering woman architect. In addition to working on San Simeon for twenty-eight years (1919-1947), Julia Morgan designed 700 additional projects throughout the west. In recognition of her many achievements, the American Institute of Architects recently chose Julia Morgan as the first female recipient of their highest honor, the Gold Medal. Ms. Kastner will reveal newly discovered information about Morgan’s inspiring private life, as well as chronicling her impressive career.

Please join the author for a book signing following the lecture. Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect is available for purchase from the museum store before and after the lecture.

Photos are courtesy of the author.

HYBRID PROGRAM 

This lecture will be presented in the theater in the Ellen MacNeille Charles Visitor Center and will be livestreamed via Zoom. Visitors can submit questions for the speaker from any location. 

IN-PERSON TIMELINE

5:30–6:30 p.m. | Explore Hillwood

• Enjoy Hillwood’s mansion, gardens, and greenhouse.
• Find the perfect memento from your visit at the museum shop. 
• Members receive an extra 10% off regularly priced merchandise when they attend in person on the day of the event. This offer does not extend to online or telephone purchases.

6:00–6:30 p.m. | Members-only wine and cheese reception. Join today!

6:30–7:30 p.m. | Lecture 

7:30 p.m. | Book signing. Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect is available in the museum shop. Click here to purchase the book online!

ABOUT THE SPEAKER

Victoria Kastner was the official historian at Hearst Castle for nearly three decades. In addition to her new biography about its talented architect (Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect), she has also written three volumes chronicling its fascinating history: Hearst Castle: The Biography of a Country House; Hearst’s San Simeon: The Gardens and the Land; and Hearst Ranch: Family, Land, and Legacy. She has also published works on the Beverly Hills Hotel, Bernard Maybeck’s Palace of Fine Arts, and the novels of Charles Dickens.

ABOUT THE GREAT HOMES AND GARDENS LECTURE SERIES 

Escape February’s dreariness and immerse yourself in the stories of extraordinary homes, lush gardens, and the people who brought them to life in this four-part lecture series.

Visitors can attend and ask questions whether they choose to come in person or join the livestream from the comfort of home; questions will be taken from all locations.