Robert H. Tannahill Society

Who was Robert Tannahill?

Robert H. Tannahill (1893–1969) was an exemplary member of the DIA family. The son of Robert Blyth Tannahill and Elizabeth Hudson (sister of J. L. Hudson), Mr. Tannahill enthusiastically supported the museum for more than 40 years. He was an honorary curator of American art, a trustee of the DIA Founders Society and a member of the City of Detroit Arts Commission. An ardent and knowledgeable collector, he donated 475 works of art to the museum during his lifetime. At his death, he left a bequest of another 556 works and a generous trust arrangement for future acquisitions. Among his gifts are some of the DIA's most recognizable treasures—works by Picasso, Renoir, Van Gogh, and many others. Mr. Tannahill's vision and belief in the future of the DIA continues to make a difference today.

What is the Robert H. Tannahill Society?

The DIA inaugurated the Robert H. Tannahill Society in 1994. It is our way to honor those donors whose generosity and vision have inspired them to make a gift to the museum by will, trust, charitable gift annuity, or any other planned gift vehicle.

The DIA invites you to consider following Mr. Tannahill's example. Your planned gift will help bring art into the lives of hundreds of thousands of visitors, both at the museum and throughout our community, and will help ensure that future generations will enjoy the art, programming, and experience of our world-class museum. Your gift may also have tax advantages for you or your estate. Planned gifts are especially critical to building the museum's endowment, which helps the DIA cover its annual operating costs.

How can I become a member?

Your membership in the Robert H. Tannahill Society begins when you notify the DIA of your bequest intention, regardless of the size or type of gift, or make a planned gift during your lifetime. In appreciation for your commitment, you will be invited to select events at the museum throughout the year. Members' names are also prominently displayed on the Robert H. Tannahill Society donor wall in the museum.

Tannahill members are among the museum's most devoted supporters. If you have already named the Detroit Institute of Arts in your estate plan, please let us know so that we may thank you. Please notify Rosemarie Gleeson, Planned Giving Officer, at (313) 494-5233 or rgleeson@dia.org.