My father was an artist,--Arthur D'Artois, and we spent several summers at the Colony. That was way back in the 40's when Lucy Thompson, owned the buildings. My father and Bill Thompson , one of Lucy's sons , were great friends. Bill, at that time had a tendency to over-imbibe, and often my father would have to make sure he got home safely. I believe, Bill's favorite watering place was called "Snapper Inn." Don't know if it is still there.
I am attaching a picture painted by my father of the entrance to the Colony, Sorry, it is not a very good photo. I took it in haste when I was having some work done in my living room, and wanted a record of where each painting was to be rehung when the work was finished.
We lived in the part of the building that has the huge chimney, and which originally was occupied by the blacksmith when the estate was still owned by the Vanderbuilts. The blacksmith had his forge in that area, but of course it had been removed when the building was converted into living quarters. The adjoining area--on the extreme right of the picture, was the stables, and was used by my father as his studio. The area over the arch used to be the tack room where the harnesses, and other equipment for the horses were stored.
When we lived there, it was used as a studio for several actors who were rehearsing for a play. One summer a Wagnerian opera singer was busy rehearsing for her role as Brunhilda, and I still remember her marvelous singing.
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