Most men might be a tad jealous if their wives spent five years learning everything about another man. But for devoted New England Regional Art Museum (NERAM) volunteer and now author Margaret Bain, her husband’s only response was encouragement.
The “other man” in Margaret’s life has been Howard Hinton, the generous art benefactor whose extraordinary donations in the 1930s and 40s laid the foundations for NERAM.
Now, after years of dedicated research, her new book A Portrait of Howard Hinton is set to reveal the real Howard Hinton – not just the philanthropist behind a magnificent art collection, but the complex, kind-hearted man who quietly shaped Australia’s cultural history.
“We all knew Hinton’s name from the collection,” she said, “but so little about his life – where his money came from, how he lived, his friendships, his character, and what drove his generosity. I wanted to paint a portrait of him that showed who he truly was.”
The inspiration for the book came with the rediscovery of Hinton’s long-lost diary (1904–1928), missing for more than a generation and found again in 2018.
“That diary was the key,” said Margaret. “From there, I built the story using archival records, memoirs by contemporaries like Norman Lindsay, and even the memorial volume published after Hinton’s death.”
The project began modestly through NERAM’s 2019 volunteer initiative, Spotlight on the Collection, led by then curator Belinda Hungerford.
“As I researched Hinton, I started finding inconsistencies in his story – even basic facts like his birthdate and the ship he travelled to Australia on. It became an irresistible puzzle.”
Beyond art, Hinton’s quiet generosity touched every aspect of life, according to Margaret.
“He gave to the war effort, to individuals in need, to education and charities – always discreetly, never seeking recognition,” said Margaret
In that spirit, all proceeds from the book will go to NERAM’s Adopt-an-Artwork program, which preserves the collection Hinton began.
“Writing this book felt like one way I could help care for what he started,” she said. And I couldn’t have done it without the wonderful NERAM volunteers who transcribed Hinton’s diary. It was truly a team effort.”
A passionate supporter of NERAM since its opening in 1983, Margaret has volunteered with the museum since 2011 and remains deeply involved in its community.
“I feel nervous and excited,” said Margaret about the book launch. “Beth MacRaild-O’Loughlin has provided a terrific cover and designed the book to appeal to a varied audience.”
Margaret’s book is both a work of scholarship and an act of gratitude – ensuring that the story of Howard Hinton, the quiet benefactor who transformed regional Australia’s cultural life, is never forgotten.
“The book is a wonderful gift to NERAM,” said Director Rachael Parsons. “Not only will proceeds from its sale support the care of our art collection, but the story it tells illuminates the life of a man who is central to the Museum’s history and continuing legacy.
“Anyone with an interest in Australian art history – and particularly New England’s – will find the book fascinating. I am so proud of Margaret; she has worked so hard, and I am so excited for her work to be shared and celebrated.”
The book will be officially launched at NERAM on November 11 (5pm – 6pm) – the day after Howard Hinton’s 159th birthday – with cake and champagne.
Don’t miss any of the important stories from around the region. Subscribe to our email list.