Author Talks Alice DeLamar

Alice DeLamar, a legendary figure in the history of Weston and the arts, is the subject of a new book, “A Mansion of Her Own: The Mysterious Life of Heiress Alice DeLamar.”

Author Nona Footz talks about the book and Ms. DeLamar at 3:00 on Sunday, October 18 at the Weston Public Library. Registration is recommended.

New York socialite Alice DeLamar brought her refined taste and wealth to Weston in the 1930s. She built a magnificent estate, purchased properties on Newtown Turnpike and leased them to artists, donated land to the Aspetuck Land Trust, supported social and environmental causes, and in 1934 bought the Cobbs Mill Inn, transforming it into an upscale restaurant and bar.

Weston was all about peace and quiet for Ms. DeLamar, a decidedly private person suddenly in the New York City spotlight when she inherited millions at age 23.

In many respects, in Weston she was still the talk of the town. Just a smaller one.

Ms. Footz, an executive and board recruiter, freelance writer, and adjunct faculty member at New York University, was attracted to a rumor that Ms. DeLamar had left behind a manuscript. Thus began ten years of travel, interviews, a search for documents, and ultimately “A Mansion of Her Own.”

The talk by Ms. Footz on October 18 is presented by the Friends of the Weston Library and the Weston History & Culture Center.

Ms. Footz. Contributed photo