A Summer at The Breakers

by Excel V. Dyquiangco / September 5, 2023

As I stood before the majestic gates of The Breakers Mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, I could feel a sense of anticipation and wonder wash over me. This iconic mansion, a testament to the extravagant opulence of the Gilded Age, has long been on my list of must-visit places. As I stepped onto the meticulously manicured grounds, I was transported back in time to an era of grandeur and excess, where the wealthiest of the wealthy showcased their affluence through architectural marvels.

The grand façade of The Breakers loomed ahead, an awe-inspiring sight that truly lived up to its reputation. Built between 1893 and 1895, the mansion was commissioned by Cornelius Vanderbilt II, a scion of the Vanderbilt family whose vast fortune was derived from railroads and shipping. As I gazed up at the towering limestone walls, intricate details adorned every corner, reflecting the architectural styles of the Italian Renaissance. The mansion’s name itself was derived from the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean that could be seen from its vantage point—a name that perfectly captured the essence of its location and grandeur.

Stepping through the ornate front doors, I was immediately greeted by the opulent interiors that the Gilded Age was known for. The entry hall was a symphony of marble and gold, with a stunning mosaic ceiling that depicted scenes from Greek mythology. As I wandered deeper into the mansion, each room seemed to outdo the last in terms of sheer extravagance. The grand ballroom, adorned with crystal chandeliers and gilded moldings, evoked images of lavish parties and elegant waltzes that once took place here.

One of the most captivating aspects of The Breakers was its stunning ocean views. The mansion was strategically positioned to offer breathtaking panoramas of the Atlantic Ocean, serving as a reminder of the wealth and power that allowed its inhabitants to choose such a prime location. I found myself drawn to the windows, where I could almost imagine the Vanderbilts and their esteemed guests gazing out at the horizon, lost in contemplation or simply enjoying the serenity of the sea.

While the grandeur of The Breakers was undeniably impressive, it was the smaller details that truly fascinated me. The intricacies of the woodwork, the hand-painted murals that adorned the walls, and the meticulously designed furniture all spoke to the dedication and craftsmanship that went into creating this architectural masterpiece. As I moved from room to room, I couldn’t help but be in awe of the immense wealth that was poured into every aspect of the mansion’s design.

One particular room that left a lasting impression was the library. Lined with shelves upon shelves of leather-bound books, this space exuded an air of intellectualism amidst the opulence. It was said that Cornelius Vanderbilt II was an avid collector of rare books, and this room served as a testament to his passion for knowledge. As I ran my fingers along the spines of the books, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of connection to the past, imagining the quiet moments of contemplation that took place within these walls.

Of course, The Breakers also offered a glimpse into the lives of the Vanderbilt family themselves. While the mansion was undeniably lavish, it also held traces of the personal touches that made it a home. The family’s bedrooms, though grand in their own right, had an intimate feel to them—a remembrance that this was a place where people lived, loved, and dreamed even amidst the extravagance.

As I concluded my tour of The Breakers, I couldn’t help but reflect on the significance of this historical gem. Beyond its role as a symbol of wealth and excess, the mansion stood as a testament to an era of transformation and societal change. The Gilded Age was a time of unprecedented industrial growth, where fortunes were made at an astonishing rate. Yet, it was also a time of stark contrasts, where extreme wealth coexisted with widespread poverty. The opulence of The Breakers served as a stark reminder of the disparities that defined the period, a reminder that continues to resonate even in our modern world.

Standing once again before the grand entrance, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced The Breakers firsthand. It was more than just a mansion; it was a gateway to a bygone era that shaped the course of American history. As I stepped back through the gates and onto the bustling streets of Newport, I carried with me the memories of intricate architecture, grandeur beyond imagination, and a deeper understanding of the complex tapestry of the Gilded Age. The Breakers had left an indelible mark on me, a testament to the enduring power of history and the stories it holds within its walls.

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