She was the daughter of cereal magnate CW Post, who went on to build the General Foods company into a powerhouse and eventually became one of the wealthiest women in the country. As a key figure in the business world, her journey began long before she gained widespread recognition. Before fame truly found her, she played a pivotal role in expanding her father’s empire, notably by introducing a frozen food line—a strategic move brought to the table by her first husband. Speaking of which, she married Edward Bennett Close in 1905, marking the beginning of both a personal and professional partnership that would influence the trajectory of her career. Her name became synonymous with innovation and success, and throughout it all, she remained a central figure in shaping the legacy of the brand her father started.
She managed to build an impressive Russian art collection over time, especially after the Communist government began auctioning off state-owned pieces. As she traveled and explored various galleries, her passion for Russian culture deepened, and she carefully selected each artwork to add to her growing collection. Her dedication paid off—today, her name is closely associated with one of the most notable private assemblages of Russian art outside the country. With each acquisition, her reputation grew, and her name became increasingly recognized among art enthusiasts and historians alike.