Attorneys

Williamson Involved in Retaining Unique Art Collection in Northwest Ohio

11/12/20

A unique collection of an early nineteenth century artform will remain in Northwest Ohio, thanks to the efforts of a number of interested parties including Eastman & Smith, Ltd. member Lane D. Williamson.

Earlier this year, the City of Toledo entered into an agreement to move the Blair Museum of Lithophanes, which it held in trust, to the Schedel Arboretum & Gardens in Elmore, Ohio.  Schedel is renovating the 1887 home located on its grounds to house the more than 2,300 piece collection in a period-correct atmosphere.  The collection is considered the largest in the world and is expected to continue to attract thousands of visitors from around the world to the region.  The Blair Museum is set to reopen in May 2021. 

The Schedel Arboretum & Gardens was created from the estate of Joe and Marie Schedel, who collected many items from the various countries they visited, including plants.  The 17 acres holds over 10,000 plants in various gardens including a Japanese-inspired garden, a collection of sculpture and several ponds.  The Schedel also hosts artists exhibits.  For more information, please visit its web site.

Mr. Williamson is a lifelong, community minded resident of Northwest Ohio.  In addition to currently serving on the Schedel’s board of directors, he is a former president of the Wood County Economic Development Commission’s executive committee and past chair of the Arts & Sciences Advocates Board at Bowling Green State University.  His legal practice includes real estate acquisition and development, estate planning and advising both profit and nonprofit organizations.