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Writer's pictureDon Schueler

C.W. and W.L. Harkness in Newport RI

Updated: Aug 28, 2023

There have been a few times in this Harkness/Flagler journey that have surprised me. This is a great example of that:


For a number of years, my wife and I have made a summer trip up to Newport, RI to escape the summer heat in South Carolina. Often, we have stayed at the Ivy Lodge, a beautiful Gilded Age "cottage". (If you love Gilded Age history, I highly recommend visiting Newport and staying at the Ivy Lodge)


Ivy Lodge, Newport, RI

More Ivy Lodge Images here: https://ivylodge.com/about/gallery/


So just recently, I decided to see if the Flagler or Harkness families had visited Newport. In the late 1800s and early 1900s, Newport, RI was the summer destination for the New York social crowd like the Vanderbilts, Astors, Belmonts, Morgans, Wideners, and many more. They all built summer "cottages" which were just huge mansions to establish their place in society, used only for the short "season" that lasted only 6-8 weeks in the summer. The rest of the year they were typically in New York and Paris and later on Palm Beach.


The Social Register and New York Times articles about Newport are excellent resources to find out where the elite society was spending its time. I discovered that in 1911, Charles Harkness and his family spent time in Newport at the Harriman cottage. It's uncertain if they rented the Harriman cottage by themselves or if the Harrimans shared their house. It is likely they rented the whole cottage themselves. They had personal servants with them, and they had staff on their yachts as well.


1911 Social Register Entry for Chas W. Harkness at Harrimans Clay Street showing where they would be spending summers.

June 19, 1911 New York Times

So then, I wondered where on Clay Street the Harriman cottage was! Well after reaching out to the Newport Historical Society, doing other research, and finally discussing with Wesley Jursek at the Ivy Lodge, I found out much to my surprise that the Ivy Lodge was once the Harriman Cottage! So, it ended up that unknowingly we had been staying in the same cottage that the CW and William Harkness families rented in Newport! Wow..didn't see that coming!


Not only that! It is likely that each of the Harkness families sailed their yachts Gunilda and Agawa to Newport that summer. Tragically, this would then be the last time that Gunilda would see Newport since she sunk in August of that year. Read more about the Sinking of the Gunilda here. Also in May of 1911, the Standard Oil Trust was broken up and at the time there must have been concern - even though the act made them more money. So, 1911 was likely a mixed year for the Harknesses.


William's yacht The Gunilda sunk in Lake Superior later that summer in August 1911!


Agawa - CW Harkness yacht that they sailed to Newport.


What was it like in Newport RI?


The video above is about what life was like in Newport. It gives a glimpse of the gilded age and how wealthy Newporters lived in those days. It is 1HR long...so maybe clicking Watch Laatter top right is a good idea.


During the Gilded Age, Newport, Rhode Island, was also favored for its pleasant climate. Its coastal location provided a moderate climate with refreshing sea breezes, making it an ideal summer retreat for the wealthy elite. The comfortable weather contributed to the popularity of outdoor activities and social events that defined the era.


Today, Newport continues to be a popular destination known for its historical charm, maritime heritage, and picturesque beauty. The Gilded Age mansions have been preserved and many are open to the public as museums, offering a glimpse into the lavish lifestyles of the past. The city's maritime traditions remain strong, and Newport hosts various sailing events, regattas, and yacht races, carrying on the legacy of its yachting history.


The climate remains one of the city's appealing features. Summers are mild and pleasant, with temperatures averaging around the 70s to low 80s Fahrenheit (20s to 30s Celsius). The coastal influence moderates temperatures and keeps humidity levels comfortable. This climate still contributes to Newport's allure as a summertime destination. Additionally, the city has evolved into a hub for arts, culture, and tourism, attracting visitors who come to explore its history, enjoy its coastal beauty, and partake in various festivals and events held throughout the year.




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