In Newport, within the American state of Rhode Island, stands an opulent estate that once belonged to the Vanderbilt family—a lavish testament to industrial-era America during the late 1800s. Join us as we explore this magnificent Gilded Age manor!
Upon reaching Newport Island, New England In the state of Rhode Island, the impressive outline 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 and serves as a striking illustration of the extravagant lifestyles led by the industrial elite during the Gilded Age—the prosperous era marking the late 19th century. th century in the United States.
The Breakers, an enormous undertaking by Richard Morris Hunt
Constructed 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 Commissioned Richard Morris Hunt, renowned for designing the facade of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the base of the pedestal 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 Europe’s finest estates. Back then, the island served as an exclusive summer retreat for America’s elite socialites, and members of the Vanderbilt clan, along with other affluent families from the Eastern Seaboard, sought to enjoy their vacations there. The grandeur of this undertaking mirrors the immense fortune possessed by the family: a sprawling mansion covering 1,200 square meters across five levels, complete with 70 rooms, featuring 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 famous 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 is 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. Ample natural light pours in from large windows facing the sea, illuminating the grandeur of the area.
The other rooms also exude splendor. Within the ballroom, where the Vanderbilt family hosted lavish gatherings, every detail was crafted to awe visitors: exquisite wooden floors, French crystal chandeliers, and Italian marble mantles. Moving into the dining area, one finds seating for approximately forty individuals at an expansive table illuminated by radiant gold chandeliers. Another space that draws attention is the library. Its intricately designed mahogany shelves hold a selection of ancient spellbooks, offering a serene ambiance distinct from the opulence found elsewhere in this residence. It was here that Cornelius Vanderbilt II frequently engaged in business dealings and entertained 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 geometric style reminiscent of classic French designs, complete with neatly kept boxwood hedges bordering pathways made of pristine white gravel. As you approach the lawn’s perimeter, stone stairs guide your descent towards rocky shores where crashing waves perpetually pound against them—a sight that originally lent the estate its evocative name.
Before you visit The Breakers, here’s what you should keep in mind.
Since opening to visitors in 1948, The Breakers has become a major attraction in Newport. Various guided tours offer insights into the lives of the Vanderbilt family. A traditional tour leads you through key areas such as the lavish Grand Salon and the intimate Billiard Room. An additional exploration reveals hidden passageways beneath the estate, which served as workspaces for the staff who maintained daily operations seamlessly. These subterranean spaces resemble an intricate network of tunnels underpinning each section of the residence, equipped with cutting-edge facilities including electricity, plumbing, and elevators. Lastly, guests have free rein to wander around the meticulously landscaped grounds, enjoying scenic pathways and 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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