Farmington Continuing Education

Today, we will head to Newport, Rhode Island for a self guided tour of two of the most famous Newport Mansions! The Elms was the summer residence of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Julius Berwind of Philadelphia and New York. Mr. Berwind made his fortune in the coal industry. In 1898, architect Horace Trumbauer designed a house, modeled after the mid-18th century French chateau d'Asnieres outside Paris. Construction of The Elms was completed in 1901 at a cost reported at approximately $1.4 million. The interiors and furnishings were designed by Allard and Sons of Paris and were the setting for the Berwinds' collection of Renaissance ceramics, 18th century French and Venetian paintings, and Oriental jades. The Breakers mansion is the grandest of the Newport summer ‘cottages’ and is also a symbol of the Vanderbilt family’s social and financial preeminence in the turn of the century here in America. Your visit will offer an self-guided interpretation of its place in American architectural, social, and cultural history. Enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many restaurants in central Newport.

Trip includes: motorcoach, group leader, and meal recommendations.