A sprawling Gilded Age mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, known as Seaview Terrace, has been listed for sale with an asking price of $28.5 million. The historic property, one of the largest private homes in the United States, represents a significant piece of architectural history from an era of unprecedented American wealth.
Located at 207 Ruggles Avenue, the estate spans 7.7 acres and features more than 60 rooms, offering a rare opportunity to own a landmark property from the tail end of Newport's most lavish construction period.
Key Takeaways
- Seaview Terrace, a Gilded Age mansion in Newport, is on the market for $28.5 million.
- The property includes over 60 rooms, 29 bedrooms, and 18 bathrooms on a 7.7-acre lot.
- Built in 1925, it is considered one of the last grand "summer cottages" of its era.
- The current owner hopes the buyer will either use it as a private residence or open a portion to the public as a museum.
A Glimpse into a Bygone Era
Seaview Terrace stands as a monument to the Gilded Age, a period of rapid economic growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The mansion was originally constructed in 1925 for industrialist Edson Bradley, serving as his family's summer retreat. Its completion marked the end of an architectural epoch in Newport, as the Great Depression soon brought the construction of such opulent homes to a halt.
The sheer scale of the residence is immense. With more than 60 rooms, the interior includes 29 bedrooms and 18 bathrooms. The home is filled with intricate details that reflect its European influences, including soaring Venetian Renaissance ceiling frescos and 15th-century German stained glass windows.
Among its many unique features is a 64-foot-long library, a private chapel, an organ room, and what is known as a “whispering gallery.” This acoustic marvel allows a whisper to be heard clearly from 80 feet away, a design element found in famous structures like St. Paul's Cathedral in London.
Property at a Glance
- Price: $28.5 million
- Location: Newport, Rhode Island
- Size: 7.7 acres
- Bedrooms: 29
- Bathrooms: 18
- Fireplaces: 11 (stone)
The Carey Family Legacy
The property has been in the same family for half a century. Preservationists Millicent and Martin Carey purchased Seaview Terrace in 1974 for approximately $285,000. Their daughter, Denise Carey Bettencourt, is the current owner and has managed the estate following her father's passing.
Maintaining such a vast and historic property comes with significant financial responsibility. According to Bettencourt, the annual property taxes alone are estimated to be around $80,000. This figure does not include the substantial costs associated with the upkeep of a century-old structure of this magnitude.
Bettencourt first listed the property in 2021 for $29.9 million. In a previous interview, she expressed her deep connection to the home but acknowledged the need to pass it on to a new steward.
"My love for the house is so great that I’m willing to sacrifice my part in it," Bettencourt stated, reflecting on her decision to sell.
Her hope for the future of Seaview Terrace is twofold. She envisions a new owner who will either cherish it as a private family home or preserve its historical integrity by converting the first floor into a museum, allowing the public to experience its Gilded Age splendor.
Architectural and Historical Significance
Seaview Terrace is more than just a large house; it is a historical artifact. Its location within the Ochre Point-Cliffs Historic District provides it with legal protections. The mansion cannot be torn down, ensuring its preservation for future generations.
What Was the Gilded Age?
The Gilded Age, roughly from the 1870s to the early 1900s, was a time of immense industrial and economic growth in the United States. Wealthy families like the Vanderbilts and Astors built extravagant "summer cottages" in Newport, which were, in reality, massive mansions used for entertaining during the summer season. These homes were symbols of status and wealth, often mimicking European palaces.
While the main structure is protected, the 7.7-acre lot offers development potential. The land can be subdivided, which could allow for the construction of additional buildings on the property, subject to local zoning regulations.
The estate's grandeur has not gone unnoticed in the digital age. The listing recently gained widespread attention after being featured on "Zillow Gone Wild," a popular social media account that showcases unique and extravagant real estate listings to millions of followers. This modern spotlight has introduced a new generation to one of America's most remarkable private residences.
The Future of a Newport Landmark
The sale of Seaview Terrace represents a pivotal moment for the historic property. The next owner will not only acquire a significant piece of real estate but will also become the custodian of a unique chapter in American history. The property is often associated with local lore, including stories of hauntings, adding another layer to its mystique.
The combination of its architectural grandeur, historical importance, and prime Newport location makes it a one-of-a-kind offering. Whether it remains a private sanctuary or transitions into a semi-public space, the future of Seaview Terrace will be closely watched by preservationists, historians, and real estate enthusiasts alike. The sale is an opportunity to ensure that this Gilded Age treasure continues to stand as a testament to a defining period in the nation's past.
