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Last Updated on June 2, 2024 by Ryan John
Newport, Rhode Island, is renowned for its stunning Gilded Age mansions, and among them, the Breakers stands as the grandest and most opulent. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, the Breakers in Newport offers visitors a unique glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of one of the country’s most illustrious families during a time of unparalleled economic growth. With its rich history, breathtaking interiors, and expansive, beautifully landscaped grounds, the Breakers Mansion stands as a must-visit landmark for anyone fascinated by the extravagance and cultural dynamism of the Gilded Age.
History of the Breakers in Newport
The Vanderbilt Legacy
The Breakers in Newport was built as the summer residence for the Vanderbilt family, one of America’s wealthiest families during the Gilded Age. Cornelius Vanderbilt II, the head of the family, commissioned the mansion after his previous Newport home was destroyed by fire. The Breakers served as a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial pre-eminence.
The Gilded Age Icon
The Breakers Mansion, built in 1895 for the Vanderbilt family, is a quintessential representation of the Gilded Age’s luxury and opulence in Newport, Rhode Island. As a 70-room Italian Renaissance-style villa, it reflects the era’s architectural extravagance and the immense wealth of America’s elite. During the Gilded Age, the mansion served as a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social status and financial power, embodying the period’s economic prosperity and cultural aspirations. The Breakers played a pivotal role in defining the social scene of Newport, hosting lavish parties and gatherings that were the highlight of the summer season for the American aristocracy. Its design, by Richard Morris Hunt, and its elaborate interiors showcase the period’s artistic and architectural innovations, making the mansion an important cultural and historical landmark from the Gilded Age.
Did you know? The Breakers originally cost $7M in the 1890s – that’s a jaw-dropping $215M today!
A National Historic Landmark
In 1994, The Breakers in Newport was designated a National Historic Landmark, cementing its place in American history. The mansion has been meticulously preserved, allowing visitors to experience the grandeur of the Gilded Age in its original splendor.
Architecture
Italian Renaissance Influence
The mansion is a marvel of Italian Renaissance architecture. Richard Morris Hunt, the architect, drew inspiration from 16th-century Italian palaces. The exterior is made of Indiana limestone, and the interiors are adorned with intricate carvings, rare marbles, and ornate gildings.
Interior Grandeur
The Breakers in Newport features 70 rooms spread across five floors. The mansion is a spectacle of opulence, with walls covered in gold and platinum. The 45-foot high central Great Hall serves as the focal point of the house, adorned with rich tapestries and a grand chandelier.
Tours and Visits
Planning Your Visit
The Breakers is located at 44 Ochre Point Ave, Newport, RI 02840. It is open for tours year-round, with operating hours usually between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm. Tickets can be purchased online or at the mansion.
Types of Tours
The Breakers offers various types of tours to suit different interests. You can opt for a self-guided audio tour that allows you to explore the mansion at your own pace. For those who cannot visit in person, The Breakers also offers virtual tours that highlight the stories of some of the men and women who worked to service the social whirl of Newport during the Gilded Age.
Christmas at The Breakers
Holiday Decorations
During the holiday season, The Breakers in Newport transforms into a winter wonderland. The mansion is adorned with ornately decorated Christmas trees, garlands, wreaths, and fresh floral arrangements designed to complement the décor or theme of each room. The exterior is also illuminated with festive lights, adding to the holiday charm.
Special Holiday Tours
If you visit during the Christmas season, you can experience The Breakers in all its festive finery, glittering with gold and sparkling with silver. Special holiday tours are available, allowing you to explore the mansion’s holiday decorations in detail.
Interesting Facts
- The mansion has a 45-foot high central Great Hall.
- It was one of the first homes in America to be fully electrified.
- The Breakers has been featured in several films and documentaries.
Closing Thoughts on the Breakers in Newport
The Breakers is not just a mansion; it’s a testament to an era of unparalleled opulence and architectural ingenuity. Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates grandeur, The Breakers in Newport offers an experience like no other. So why wait? Plan your visit today and step back in time to experience the epitome of Gilded Age luxury.
