A luxe $3.5M equestrian estate that belonged to Vanderbilt family is hitting the auction block
By Mary K. Jacob,
2 days ago
A piece of Gilded Age history, once home to America’s elite, is about to hit the auction block.
Sandy Point Farm, a grand Rhode Island property deeply rooted in the Vanderbilt dynasty, is offering bidders the rare chance to own a slice of equestrian luxury.
Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions is hosting the event next month, with bids opening on Oct. 17 and closing on Halloween, The Post has learned.
Starting bids are expected to land between $1 million and $2 million for the 6.15-acre estate, listed at $3.5 million .
Commissioned by Reginald Claypoole Vanderbilt, the son of Cornelius Vanderbilt II and the grandfather of modern-day media figure Anderson Cooper, the estate was designed to reflect the family’s lavish tastes and prominence in high society. Concierge Auctions Married couple Gloria Morgan Vanderbilt and Reginald C. Vanderbilt stand outdoors, posing with their baby daughter, Gloria Vanderbilt. Getty Images
The architecture of the estate, designed by A.S. Walker, reflects the Vanderbilt penchant for grandeur. Concierge Auctions
This estate, located in Portsmouth, was originally designed by the renowned architect A.S. Walker and completed in 1902 for Reginald Claypoole Vanderbilt, a name synonymous with American aristocracy.
Commissioned by Reginald, the son of Cornelius Vanderbilt II and the grandfather of modern-day media figure Anderson Cooper, the estate was designed to reflect the family’s lavish tastes and prominence in high society.
The Vanderbilts were among the wealthiest and most influential families in the United States during the Gilded Age, amassing a fortune through railroads, shipping and other industries.
The stables, with 24 stalls and a 15,000-square-foot indoor riding arena, were state-of-the-art for the time, underscoring the importance of equestrian pursuits to the family. Concierge Auctions The property offers a massive 15,000-square-foot indoor riding arena, as well as grooms’ quarters. Concierge Auctions
The Vanderbilts were among the wealthiest and most influential families in the United States during the Gilded Age, amassing a fortune through railroads, shipping, and various other industries. Pictures is Reginald Claypoole Vanderbilt in an undated photo. Bettmann Archive
Sandy Point Farm was a symbol of their social status, designed as a premier equestrian estate for Reginald, an avid horse breeder. Reginald, though overshadowed by other Vanderbilts in terms of business accomplishments, was known for his passion for horses, and Sandy Point was where he pursued that interest.
The estate became a prestigious venue for horse breeding and equestrian activities, serving as a hub for the elite of Rhode Island society.
It was there that Reginald hosted many gatherings, continuing the Vanderbilt tradition of throwing extravagant parties and events that rivaled those of their other legendary homes, such as The Breakers in Newport.
Reginald C. Vanderbilt is the grandfather of longtime CNN anchor Anderson Cooper (above). Stefano Giovannini
The property is an equestrian dream, boasting 24 stables, a massive 15,000-square-foot indoor riding arena, and grooms’ quarters.
Built during the height of the Gilded Age, the once-bustling center of high-society horse breeding and social gatherings is ripe with opportunity for a modern overhaul.
With scenic views and a secluded setting just a stone’s throw from Newport, the estate is one of the last remnants of the original Vanderbilt holdings.
A 1982 portrait of American fashion designer and socialite Gloria Vanderbilt (center) as she sits outdoors in Southampton, drinking tea with her sons, future journalist Anderson Cooper (left) and Carter Vanderbilt Cooper, who died in 1988. Gloria Vanderbilt passed away in 2019. Getty Images While many Vanderbilt estates have been sold off or repurposed, Sandy Point remains a relatively untouched relic, offering a rare glimpse into the life of Gilded Age aristocracy. Concierge Auctions
Beyond its historic significance, the property’s blend of original architecture and renovation potential makes it a must-see for real estate aficionados with an eye for luxury.
During its heyday, Sandy Point Farm was a jewel in the Vanderbilt crown, a place where the upper crust of Rhode Island society gathered for lavish events. Now, with its 30,000 square feet of grandeur, eight bedrooms and five bathrooms, it could be transformed into a modern-day mansion fit for a new generation of elite.
Situated just 15 minutes from Newport and 40 minutes from T.F. Green International Airport, the estate’s prime location adds to its allure. For history buffs, equestrian enthusiasts or those simply seeking a luxurious slice of coastal life, the upcoming auction presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
If you’ve ever dreamed of living like the Vanderbilts — or at least owning a piece of their legacy — this could be your chance.
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