Victoria Kastner, author of the first in-depth book exploring architect Julia Morgan’s fascinating private life and remarkable career, speaks on October 10, 2024, as part of The Mercantile Library’s Allgood-McLean: Women You Should Know series, in collaboration with the Cincinnati chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

Morgan was the first woman to graduate from the renowned architecture program at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris and the first woman licensed to practice architecture in California. Best known as the designer of William Randolph Hearst’s lavish estate at San Simeon, Morgan built an astonishing seven hundred additional projects throughout the west. Only in recent years has her contribution to architecture been fully recognized and celebrated.

Kastner’s book, Julia Morgan: An Intimate Biography of the Trailblazing Architect, and her lecture reveal new discoveries about Julia Morgan’s inspiring personal life, which was as exceptional as her distinguished career. Kastner was the official historian at Hearst Castle for nearly three decades and has written three volumes chronicling its fascinating history. A book signing will take place following her lecture.