Meet Our Donors

In 1919, Henry Huntington made the momentous decision to leave a legacy to the American public. After several years of developing extraordinary gardens and building important collections of art, books and manuscripts, he and his wife, Arabella, signed the legal documents which would assure the fulfillment of this dream. After their deaths, their private esate would be transformed into a public institution, operating on an endowment that Mr. Huntington provided in his Will. The permanent endowment provides ongoing support for the important cultural institution that bears his name.

People today use similar basic legal instruments -- wills and trusts -- to accomplish their annual gifts and in the plans they make to benefit this institution in the future. We salute and honor the members of the Arabella and Henry Huntington Heritage Society as keepers of an important tradition that sustains and advances the work of the Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens.

Christine and Brad Mishler

As active supporters of The Huntington and its mission during the last three decades, the Mishlers have had a vibrant interest in Colonial and 19th century American art as well as Native American art and artifacts. The Mishlers became Friends of the Huntington in 1971 and in 1990 joined the Society of Fellows. Their commitment to the future of The Huntington has earned them a place in the Henry and Arabella Huntington Heritage Society as well. During Christine’s lifetime, both enjoyed The Huntington as thoroughly and as frequently as possible. When the staff shared dreams for the Botanical Complex of buildings, Brad and Christine were willing to make a lasting commitment to the future of The Huntington programs. The fact that the mission of the main building was and is dedicated to the care of the gardens as well as serving scholars, passionate gardeners and our visiting public spoke volumes to both Brad and Christine. It is through the tremendous support of Christine’s estate that the Botanical building is now fondly and appropriately known as the Mishler Building.

Christine’s love of gardening began following a move into a retirement community in 1988. Only then did she discover a passion for artistic expression through design incorporating both traditional and native plants. Originally begun as an herb garden, the garden eventually encompassed an area 35 x 100 outlined by native rock.

The Mishlers trace their roots to Ohio. Brad’s ancestors helped establish Ashland College where Christine later taught art history, designing and drawing. Brad spent most of his adult life in Southern California. His relationship with The Huntington was actually begun through his parents. As early as 1933 Carlos Mishler and later in 1941, Abbie Mishler, were actively engaged as readers at the Huntington.

Brad’s love of American art is only a small indication of the intense knowledge of the American art form. He has committed a lasting tribute through his individual planning to endow the future of the American art collection at The Huntington.

“It gives me great pleasure to provide for the future of The Huntington in this way. Christine and I have always found such great joy in our moments at The Huntington and wish to provide the same joys to future generations.”