Newport, Rhode Island

During the Age of Elegance, New York's Elite would summer in Rhode Island.  I'm not sure even Bill Gates has the kind of money these people had but it was fascinating to tour the houses and see what the lap of luxury really means.

In 1895 Cornelius Vanderbilt II commissioned American architect Richard Morris

Hunt to build his 70-room mansion overlooking Rhode Island Sound in Newport.
Hunt’s creation, called The Breakers, incorporates many of the elements of the
Beaux Arts tradition he observed, including symmetry and dignity.

The Breakers
Ochre Point Avenue, Newport, RI
Telephone: 401-847-1000

The Breakers was built in 1895 for Cornelius Vanderbilt and is modeled after an Italian palace. The inside is home to literally dozens of fabulous pieces of art and antiques, and the ornate architecture of the interior is breathtaking. Tours reveal the lifestyle of the wealthy and powerful Newport society at the turn of the last century. Admission is $10 for adults, $4.00 for children 6-11.

D. McHugh 1998
(taken with my new elph camera that I got for my birthday)

 

Belcourt Castle
Bellevue Avenue
Telephone: 401-846-0669

Belcourt is a French-style castle, built in Louis XIII style. It was constructed for Oliver Hazard Perry Belmont and finished in 1894. On display are a collection of art treasures and antiques from all over the world. The residence is owned by and home to the Tinney family, who open the house to tourists during most of the year. Admission is $6.50 for adults, $2.00 for children, $5 for senior citizens and $4 for students over 12.