Newport Mansions & Point Judith // New England Pt. 8
Read Pt. 1 // Pt. 2 // Pt. 3 // Pt. 4 // Pt. 5 // Pt. 6 // Pt. 7
Before visiting Rhode Island, I had heard so much about the Newport Mansions and their grandeur. From platinum wallpaper to furniture upholstered with French tapestries, these homes were sure to impress. Of course, they went above and beyond “impressive”. They’re downright unbelievable… These mansions are owned and operated by The Preservation Society of Rhode Island, but back when they were built, they were owned by America’s elite. While there are around nine homes, total, I was only able to visit two.
I’d thought I had visited some nice homes, during my travels, in the past. But the Breakers, built by the Vanderbilt family in 1893, puts them all to shame. Named for it’s coastal backyard, and the waves that crash upon it, every detail inside and out screams “luxury”.
The Marble House is the other mansion I was able to visit, named for the 500,000 cubic feet of marble used to build it. This home, like The Breakers, is luxury at its finest; however, (only) slightly less impressive. Built between 1888 and 1892 for another part of the Vanderbilt family, this home is still excessively elaborate.
While I could never see myself actually living in, building, or wanting to build a home like this, I couldn’t help but imagine what life would have been like… The elaborate events, the expectations, the dresses. It’s definitely an interesting lifestyle to think about.
After visiting the Newport Mansions, there was just enough time for a quick stop at Point Judith, before heading back for Halloween festivities. It was another stormy day, and the clouds hung low and heavy, on the horizon. With the waves crashing up against the rocks, the smell of salt in the air, and the lighthouse casting its soft glow, in the distance, it really set the mood for the holiday, and was a perfectly New England way to end an amazing trip.
This post concludes my New England trip recap, and I won’t lie, I’m kind of sad! Each trip I’ve taken has been so special and filled with beautiful memories, but this one will always hold an extra special place in my heart.