Activity Overview
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, the Berwinds hired Philadelphia architect Horace Trumbauer to design 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 elaborate Classical Revival gardens on the grounds were developed between 1907 and 1914. They include terraces displaying marble and bronze sculpture, a park of fine specimen trees and a lavish lower garden featuring marble pavilions, fountains, a sunken garden and carriage house and garage. These gardens were recently restored.
Things to Do
- Take a self-guided, audio tour which will lead you through the grand ballroom, salon, dining room, breakfast room, library, conservatory and grand hallway on the first floor, bedrooms and sitting room upstairs, and servants' quarters on the third floor.
- Enjoy the stunning view of Newport Harbor.
The Marble House Insider Tips
- Allow about an hour and a half for a tour of the mansion. No advance ticket purchase is required.
- Strollers and oversize bags are not allowed inside The Marble House.
- Photographs are permitted only of the exterior of the building.
- Only partially wheelchair accessible.
