Christmas at the Biltmore

     __By Tiffany Amber Stockton__

In November, I introduced you to two American royal families—the Vanderbilts and the Rockefellers. This month, it's all about a Christmas Eve celebration at a grand estate.

I also apologize again for the lack of the post photos. Google is still giving me a fit about my account connected to this blog and despite logging in, it's telling me I need to sign in. (sigh) If I figure it out, I'll come back and add photos. Nevertheless, you can still enjoy the story. 😊

The Biltmore Estate: A Grand Vision Come to Life

On Christmas Eve in 1895, George Vanderbilt, grandson of Cornelius Vanderbilt, welcomed friends and family into his opulent new home for the very first time. The unveiling of the Biltmore Estate marked the culmination of a grand dream that began in 1888 when George first visited Asheville, North Carolina. Captivated by the region’s breathtaking mountain scenery, he began purchasing land, eventually amassing 125,000 acres for what would become his iconic estate.

Designed by renowned architect Richard Morris Hunt, the Biltmore Estate took six years to complete. The construction process was as ambitious as the vision itself, requiring its own brick factory, woodworking shops, and even a private railway to transport building materials. The result was a majestic 250-room French Renaissance chateau, which still holds the title of the largest privately owned home in the United States. Spanning 175,000 square feet—more than 4 acres of floor space—the mansion boasts 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces, a testament to Vanderbilt’s eye for both luxury and scale. I don't know about you, but I certainly wouldn't want to be the one cleaning all those rooms!

Despite its grandeur, the estate boasted some rather innovative forestry practices, with George ensuring the preservation of its natural beauty. After George’s death in 1914, his wife, Edith Vanderbilt, carried on his conservation legacy by selling 87,000 acres of the estate to the federal government, laying the foundation for Pisgah National Forest.

A Christmas to Remember

Although George Vanderbilt moved into the Biltmore House in October 1895, the estate’s official debut was reserved for Christmas Eve. Preparations for the holiday were nothing short of extraordinary. From scouting the perfect mistletoe and holly to selecting a towering Christmas tree worthy of the Banquet Hall, no detail was overlooked. Estate manager Charles McNamee and horticulturist Chauncey Beadle agreed that a 20-foot tree wouldn’t suffice, ultimately choosing a much larger one to suit the grandeur of the space.

When George’s family arrived, including his mother, siblings, and their children, they were greeted by the spectacular tree, adorned with gifts for estate workers and surrounded by tables piled high with presents for the family. Stockings were hung, plum puddings and mince pies were served, and the grand Banquet Hall became the heart of the festivities.

The celebration included elegant dinners around the 40-foot table, with George’s niece Gertrude noting in her Dinner Books that 27 Vanderbilt family members attended. It was the largest family gathering since George’s father’s passing a decade earlier. Adding to the holiday magic, Maria Louisa Vanderbilt read ’Twas the Night Before Christmas to the children, and the family exchanged gilded, jewel-encrusted Christmas cards—a fitting touch for such an opulent occasion.

The first Christmas at the Biltmore blended grandeur with heartfelt traditions, setting the tone for a legacy of holiday splendor that endures to this day, with as many as 5,000 visitors on their busiest day and evening.

NOW IT'S YOUR TURN:

* If you could spend Christmas at the Biltmore Estate, what would you be most excited to see or experience?

* The Biltmore Estate is known for its grandeur and sustainability efforts. Which aspect of its history fascinates you most: its architectural feat, conservation legacy, or holiday traditions? Why?

* Imagine hosting a Christmas dinner in a historic mansion like the Biltmore. What traditions or details would you include to make it unforgettable?



** This note is for our email readers. Please do not reply via email with any comments. View the blog online and scroll down to the comments section.

Come back on the 9th of each month for my next foray into historical tidbits to share.

For those interested in my life as an author and everyday gal, what I'm currently reading, historical tidbits, recommended reads, and industry news about other authors, subscribe to my monthly newsletter. The latest edition was just sent out last week. Receive a FREE e-book of Magic of the Swan just for subscribing.

BIO

Tiffany Amber Stockton has embellished stories since childhood, thanks to a very active imagination and notations of talking entirely too much. Honing those skills led her to careers as an award-winning, best-selling author and speaker, while also working as a professional copywriter/copyeditor. She loves to share life-changing products and ideas with others to help improve their lives in a variety of ways, but especially from the inside out.

Currently, she lives with her husband and fellow author, Stuart Vaughn Stockton, along with their two children, one dog, and three cats in southeastern Kentucky. In her 20+ years as a professional writer, she has sold twenty-six (26) books so far and has agent representation with Tamela Murray of the Steve Laube Agency. You can find her on Facebook and GoodReads.

American Royal Family Dynasties

    __By Tiffany Amber Stockton__

In October, I had fun sharing about the oldest outdoor theatre that exists in Kentucky—the Pioneer Playhouse. This month, I'm introducing two old-school families that have established positions in American history.

I also apologize for the lack of the post photos. Google is giving me a fit about my account and despite logging in, it's telling me I need to sign in. (sigh) If I figure it out, I'll come back and add photos. Nevertheless, you can still enjoy the story. 😊

Two Dynasties—Two Different Directions

The United States may lack a royal family, but we do have our own dynasties. Take the Vanderbilts and the Rockefellers — two iconic families whose names alone bring to mind immense wealth, power, and ambition. Cornelius Vanderbilt, with his sprawling railroad empire, built a fortune that helped define the extravagance of the Gilded Age. Then there’s John D. Rockefeller, who dominated the oil industry and became known just as much for his incredible philanthropy and commitment to conservation.

While both families rose to prominence through self-made success, their legacies veered in different directions. The Vanderbilts became symbols of lavish living and architectural wonders like the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC, while the Rockefellers left an enduring mark on charity and the preservation of natural spaces. Their stories, though linked by influence, reveal two distinct paths to lasting impact.

The stories of these dynasties took very different turns. Cornelius Vanderbilt’s empire, valued at over $100 million when he passed, dwindled over the generations. By 1973, when 120 of his descendants gathered at Vanderbilt University for their first reunion, not one was a millionaire. Arthur T. Vanderbilt captured this dramatic decline in Fortune’s Children: The Fall of the House of Vanderbilt, while Anderson Cooper, a Vanderbilt descendant himself, also explored how lavish spending and poor planning led to their downfall.

In contrast, the Rockefellers have held onto their wealth for generations. Through strategic investments, philanthropy, and smart financial planning, the family has kept their fortune growing, with nearly 100 descendants still enjoying billions today. Alongside the financial savvy, the Rockefellers credit their enduring legacy to a commitment to family values, with large gatherings — sometimes over 100 people — held at least twice a year to keep those bonds strong.

NOW IT'S YOUR TURN:

* If you had inherited a large fortune, would you focus on preserving it for future generations, or would you prioritize living lavishly?

* Which family legacy resonates more with you: the Vanderbilts' love of art and opulence that is shared with the American people, or the Rockefellers' focus on philanthropy and financial stewardship? Why?

* Does your family has any traditions or values that will be passed down for generations? If so, what are they?

** This note is for our email readers. Please do not reply via email with any comments. View the blog online and scroll down to the comments section.

Come back on the 9th of each month for my next foray into historical tidbits to share.

For those interested in my life as an author and everyday gal, what I'm currently reading, historical tidbits, recommended reads, and industry news about other authors, subscribe to my monthly newsletter. The latest edition was just sent out last week. Receive a FREE e-book of Magic of the Swan just for subscribing.

BIO

Tiffany Amber Stockton has embellished stories since childhood, thanks to a very active imagination and notations of talking entirely too much. Honing those skills led her to careers as an award-winning, best-selling author and speaker, while also working as a professional copywriter/copyeditor. She loves to share life-changing products and ideas with others to help improve their lives in a variety of ways, but especially from the inside out.

Currently, she lives with her husband and fellow author, Stuart Vaughn Stockton, along with their two children, one dog, and three cats in southeastern Kentucky. In her 20+ years as a professional writer, she has sold twenty-six (26) books so far and has agent representation with Tamela Murray of the Steve Laube Agency. You can find her on Facebook and GoodReads.

The Broadmoor Hotel: Luxury at its Finest

By Tiffany Amber Stockton

Last month, I shared a bit about the Pike's Peak Highway, as it's celebrating its 100th year since official construction began. Next up is the luxurious resort known as The Broadmoor, yet another contribution of Spencer Penrose to Colorado Springs.

THE BROADMOOR

"Broadmoor Hotel, Dec 2007" by Kari Sullivan

If ever there was a resort that gives new meaning to the word luxury, The Broadmoor is it! Situated on acres at the base of Cheyenne Mountain along the Front Range of the Colorado Rockies, this 5-star resort is aptly named "The Grand Dame of the Rockies" and is patterned after elegant European hotels with excellent service and cuisine. Whitney Warren (a cousin to the Vanderbilts) and Charles Wetmore, designers of Ritz-Carlton and Biltmore hotels, were commissioned as architects in 1917 to build The Broadmoor.

As I was researching the history of this famous hotel, I found myself fascinated by so many connections to things I love or other well-known people I've researched or who were highlighted in countless historical books I've read. Even more amazing to me is how I had lived my entire life without knowing a thing about this hotel until I moved here in 2007 after marrying the man who's now my husband. Many of you reading this have likely never heard of this hotel either. I suppose we simply don't travel in the proper circles where The Broadmoor would be mentioned alongside such well-known names like Ritz-Carlton and Biltmore. *grins*

Nevertheless, this hotel has a notable names list worthy of the Who's Who in American History books. Names such as Annie Oakley, who ran the shooting school; Frederick Olmstead, who designed the landscape for Central Park and who also landscaped The Broadmoor; Arnold Palmer, who helped design the hotel's third golf course; John D. Rockefeller, who was the hotel's first guest in June of 1918; and the list goes on.

"Broadmoor Lake Panorama to the West" by Tim Chambers

The architecture and color is like the grand hotels found on the coast of the Mediterranean, in an Italian Renaissance style. The pink stucco of the façade also helps to blend in to the Pikes Peak area landscape. The main buildings are connected on a circular path around a lake, and a walking bridge has recently been built across the middle of the lake. The original hotel building is Broadmoor Main built in 1918. The others—built between 1961 and 2001—are Broadmoor South, Broadmoor West, Lakeside Suites, and West Tower.

The Broadmoor has 779 rooms or spaces available for guests. Many of the Broadmoor South rooms have balconies and some have fireplaces. There are eighteen restaurants located in the main hotel buildings, golf club, pool cafes, Summit Restaurant, and Golden Bee pub. Broadmoor Golf Club has three golf courses, designed by Donald Ross, Robert Trent Jones, and Ed Seay and Arnold Palmer.

The full-service spa has an indoor pool, fitness center, 43 treatment rooms, relaxation room, and hair and nail salon. It offers more than 100 services. You could spend three weeks being pampered here and still not experience everything offered at the spa. The resort also has indoor and outdoor pools and tennis courts. There are 25 retail shops, including clothing boutiques and shops, a florist, sundry shop, jewelry store, and gift shop. Plenty of options to satisfy that shopping craving you might have.

"USA Colorado Broadmoor Back" by Keith Knapp

There is a 3/4-mile trail around Cheyenne Lake that is creek-fed and manmade. In the summer, it's fun to rent a bike or paddleboat to travel around the lake. The Stables at the Broadmoor offer horseback riding, and The Penrose Heritage Museum houses a collection of vintage carriages and automobiles, including race cars from the Pikes Peak Auto Hill Climb in the early 20th century. I made reference to this race in my monthly post on July 9th.

As if all of this isn't enough, The Broadmoor offers a luxurious mountain experience at their 16-acre Ranch on Emerald Green on Cheyenne Mountain. The current owner purchased the property and built a main lodge and ten cabins and restored other original buildings. There are two small lakes, horse stables, a gazebo, hot tubs, and an outdoor fire pit. Ranches are available for $800/night!

So, are you ready to come for a visit?

* Bonus Note:
A long-time favorite movie of mine (Ice Castles: 1978) was filmed at the former Broadmoor World Arena in 1977. It starred Lynn-Holly Johnson, a U.S. National figure skating medalist, and Robby Benson, the voice of The Beast in Disney's Beauty and the Beast. :)

* Did You Know?
- Forbes Magazine has given The Broadmoor a 5-star ranking for 54 consecutive years (as of 2015), the longest period of time as any establishment in the U.S.
- Forbes also gave the hotel a 5-star restaurant ranking in 2012, making The Broadmoor one of only three other hotel and restaurant combinations to receive the ranking.
- For a detailed history with other fascinating facts, check out The Broadmoor web site (http://www.broadmoor.com/five-star-hotel/)

NOW IT'S YOUR TURN:

* Have you ever stayed at The Broadmoor or visited at any time? What was the reason?

* Is there a luxurious resort hotel in another town that's your favorite? Or perhaps another one well-known for its high-class service and accommodations? What is the name and where is it located? Have you ever stayed there?

* What makes a hotel "high-class" in your opinion? What is required for you to give a hotel or resort the coveted 5-star rating?

Leave answers to these questions or any comments on the post below. Next month, I'll be spotlighting the famous Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, one of the nation's top zoos, ranked by the Zoo and Aquarium Association.

---

BIO

Tiffany Amber Stockton has been crafting and embellishing stories since childhood, when she was accused of having a very active imagination and cited with talking entirely too much. Today, she has honed those childhood skills to become an award-winning author and speaker who has partnered with Nerium International in the whole body anti-aging industry, helping others achieve optimal brain health, look younger, and live better.

She lives with her husband and fellow author, Stuart Vaughn Stockton, in Colorado. They have one girl and one boy, a Retriever mix named Roxie and and Australian cattle dog named Timber. She has sold seventeen (19) books so far and is currently seeking a new literary agent for representation. You can also find her on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.

Biltmore the Estate and Giveaway Christmas Ends November 16th

Welcome back! Debbie Lynne here with more on the Vanderbilts. But today I'm going to be talking about the Biltmore House. I have a GREAT GIVEAWAY! It's getting to be that time of the year when we are starting to turn out thoughts to the holidays. So I'm giving away a copy of A Biltmore Christmas and I'm giving away a beautiful Biltmore Christmas ornament!  Leave a comment (I'd love to hear what you'd put in your dream house) and don't forget your email addy so I can contact you should you win. Happy reading!

By Valerius Tygart - Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=2826627

I love the Appalachian mountains and I'm not alone. By 1880 passenger trains had come to Asheville, NC, making the town only a day's journey from New York. The quiet mountain town full of fresh air, hot mineral springs, and beauty became the perfect resort for busy city people.

George Vanderbilt visited Asheville in 1888 with his mother and was captivated by the area's beauty. He was hooked and immediately started purchasing land for his estate. When it was all said and done, George had acquired 125,000 acres! As he planned his new endeavor, Vanderbilt modeled his dream on European and English traditions where the country estate showed wealth, significant land ownership, pursuit of physical well-being, and the importance of family and friends.

By 1889 construction had begun! This French Renaissance Chateau was the largest undertaking in residential architecture. With 250 rooms, it nearly took a whole city of skilled craftsman six years to complete this fairy tale castle. 

Together with Richard Morris Hunt (architect) and Frederick Law Olmsted (Landscape designer), George Vanderbilt brought his vision to fruition. The three men worked closely together, building a strong friendship, focusing on the same goal—making a unique American country estate.

By JcPollock - Self-published work by JcPollock, CC BY-SA 3.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1220643

December 24th, 1895 the house George Vanderbilt has poured himself into is opened to friends and family, full of beautiful decorations and holiday festivities. The home consists of 35 bedrooms, 43 bathrooms, and 65 fireplaces. It sports a very masculine Billard Room giving men a place to retreat. Doors concealed in the fireplace lead to a smoking room and a gun room, which are just a few of the marvelous rooms adorning the Biltmore Estate. 

It would take me another six posts to touch on all the rooms that Vanderbilt saw fit to build, but I'll mention a few that I found interesting. There is a 72 x 42 foot Banquet Hall with 70 foot high ceiling arches, a breakfast room, a music room, a 90 foot long Gallery, a library containing over 23,000 books, a gymnasium, a trophy room, indoor swimming pool, and the last room I'll mention but certainly not the least is the bowling alley. 

By Kristiebracag - Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=52286518

In 1889 Biltmore Village was purchased by Vanderbilt, formally the town of Best. Already consisting of a railway station, two small inns, a grist mill, and a few houses, Vanderbilt added cottages, shops, a school, post office, Church, laundry, hospital and the Biltmore Office Building. 

I hope you've enjoyed learning a little more about the history of the Biltmore Estates. I didn't even touch on the landscaping, so if you want to learn more you can go to www.biltmore.com. All pictures used are from the Biltmore website. 

If you'd like to have Biltmore wallpaper on your computer go to their photo gallery and they give you free downloads! 

Don't forget to leave a comment and let me know what would be your dream room or feature in a house along with your email addy to be entered to win A Christmas at Biltmore and a beautiful Biltmore Christmas ornament. For an extra entry drop by http://seriouslywrite.blogspot.com/2013/11/embracing-rejection-what-you-can-learn.html (this link won't work until the 16th) on November 16th and leave a comment and then come back here and let me know you stopped by to see me on Seriously Write and I'll give you a second entry to win.


Debbie Lynne Costello is represented by Tamela Hancock Murray of the Steve Laube Agency. She attended Heritage University, where she studied Journalism and worked in the editing department. She has completed five full length novels set in the Charleston, SC and Savannah, GA area in the late 19th century and is now seeking homes for them.

She and her husband have four children. They live in upstate South Carolina with their family. In her spare time, she sews, paints, knits, camps (in a fifth wheel) and plays with the grandbabies.
WEBSITE: www.debbielynnecostello.com BLOG:  www.theswordandspirit.blogspot.com BLOG: www.fictionaddictionfix.blogspot.com