The Breakers Mansion- Newport, Rhode Island

I'm in Rhode Island for a week to study a civics unit for students called Project Citizen. However, one of the side lessons we're being taught is the history of where we're staying- Newport. This is where JFK and Jackie O were married, and where many of the WASP-y rich come to play. The wealth in this place is astounding.

Today after class we were able to tour a Vanderbilt summer home named The Breakers http://www.newportmansions.org/page10001206.cfm . This "cottage" reminds me a lot of HEArst Castle- the same kind of wealth squandered on the same type of gold-leaf. However, it is amazingly opulent and in a beautiful setting.

They wouldn't allow us to take photos inside otherwise I would have shown you the mosaic floors, the platnum leaf paint, the lush velvet...everything. It was a sight!