Tour Rosecliff in Newport
Tour Rosecliff in Newport
'Awesome' --Seems like everything meriting even the slightest accolade, from cheeseburgers to the latest boy-band, is deemed to be awesome. Tour Newport's historic 'cottage district' along coastal Bellevue Avenue and you will, for a happy change, gaze upon architectural delights that are truly deserving of the word. Not the least of which is the Rosecliff Mansion.
Home to Newport's famed flower festival every spring, Rosecliff Mansion is a breathtaking delight any time of year. And for good reason-- the Rosecliff was modeled after the Gran Trianon, the palace in Versailles used by French kings as a country retreat. The land had been owned by one George Bancroft, creator of the American Beauty rose, until purchased by Nevada silver heiress Theresa Fair and her husband, Hermann Oelrichs. The Oelrichs' had opulent and extravagant taste and when the Rosecliff Mansion was completed in 1902, they threw a lavish bash for their friends, with entertainment provided by magician Harry Houdini.
Visitors aren't the only one stunned and amazed by the breathtakingly beautiful Rosecliff Mansion. Many movie directors have been impressed enough to feature it in such notable films as "The Great Gatsby", starring Robert Redford, and "High Society", starring Grace Kelly. As you are led through to first floor on a guided tour or wander the upstairs on your own, be sure to notice the clothing and books left behind by Rosecliff's illustrious Oelrichs'. It was magnificent homes like this one that made the Twenties roar with elegance and good feelings. Pause quietly for a moment and perhaps you will hear the echoes of a less complicated, grander time. Have an awesome time!
