In Newport, within the U.S. state of Rhode Island, stands an impressive estate that once belonged to the Vanderbilt family—a lavish symbol of industrial America during the late 1800s. Join us as we explore this magnificent Gilded Age mansion!
Upon reaching Newport Island, you will find New England In Rhode Island, the towering presence of The Breakers stands out prominently. Perched atop a cliff with views of the Atlantic Ocean, this grand estate was constructed from 1893 to 1895, exemplifying the lavish extravagance of the industrial elite during the Gilded Age—the prosperous era that characterized the late 19th century. th century in the United States.
The Breakers, an enormous undertaking by Richard Morris Hunt,
Completed within just two years, this extensive estate belonged to Cornelius Vanderbilt II, who was the grandson of the railroad tycoon. In 1893, the inheritor of America’s wealthiest family took ownership. United States hired renowned architect Richard Morris Hunt, known for designing the facade of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the base of the Statue of Liberty In New York, he aimed to construct his second home. The task was straightforward: to develop a dwelling on the petite island of Newport, situated between Boston and New York , which could compete with the finest estates in Europe. During this period, the island served as a summer retreat for America’s elite social class, and the Vanderbilt family, along with other wealthy individuals from the East Coast, sought to enjoy their vacation days there. The grandeur of the undertaking mirrors the immense fortune of the family: a sprawling mansion covering an area of 1,200 square meters across five stories, featuring 70 rooms and architectural elements evocative of Florentine and Roman Renaissance homes.
Within The Breakers, indulge in ultimate opulence.
The primary material for the house is marble, obtained from top-tier quarries in Italy and France. Hunt did not hold back financially, enlisting distinguished artisans to carve, paint, and adorn every area within the home. The ceilings feature elaborate frescoes, complemented by mosaic flooring and silk-clad walls that enhance the dramatic ambiance of each chamber.
The entryway stands as an impressive showcase of architecture. Spanning three stories, it features marble Corinthian pillars and a coffered ceiling decorated with frescoes reminiscent of those found in Venetian palaces. Abundant natural light pours in from large windows facing the sea, illuminating the grandeur within.
The other rooms also exude magnificence. Within the ballroom, where the Vanderbilt family hosted lavish gatherings, every element was designed to awe visitors: exquisite wooden floors, sparkling French crystal chandeliers, and Italian marble hearths. Moving on to the dining area, it has enough space to seat approximately forty individuals at an enormous table illuminated by gilded chandelier lights. Another noteworthy chamber is the library. Intricately crafted mahogany shelves hold a series of ancient texts, offering a serene ambiance distinct from the opulence found elsewhere within the mansion. It was here that Cornelius Vanderbilt II frequently engaged in professional endeavors and socialized with prominent personalities.
A stunning natural backdrop overlooking the Atlantic Ocean
Beyond its extravagant architecture, what truly distinguishes The Breakers from other Newport mansions is its prime location. Situated at the southernmost point of the island atop a cliff, this mansion boasts unobstructed ocean vistas. Its surroundings feature meticulously maintained gardens laid out in a classic French style, complete with neat rows of white gravel pathways bordered by well-groomed shrubs. As one approaches the lawn’s perimeter, stone stairs lead down to rocky shores where crashing waves relentlessly meet the land—a sight that originally lent the estate its evocative name.
Before heading to The Breakers, here’s what you should be aware of:
Since opening to visitors in 1948, The Breakers has become a premier attraction in Newport. Various guided tours offer insights into the Vanderbilt family’s life. A traditional route guides you through key areas such as the Grand Salon and the Billiard Room. An additional exploration reveals hidden passageways used by staff members who kept daily operations smooth beneath the surface. These subterranean spaces resemble an intricate network of tunnels underneath each part of the estate, featuring advanced facilities for electricity, plumbing, and elevators that were revolutionary at the time. Lastly, guests have free rein to wander around the meticulously maintained grounds, enjoying scenic pathways along with panoramic vistas overlooking both Narragansett Bay and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Breakers 44 Ochre Point Avenue
Newport, RI 02840
https://www.newportmansions.org/mansions-and-gardens/the-breakers/
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