Vanderbilt Hall’s New Incarnation “Too Marvelous For Words”

Peter de Savary, the "King of Clubs," has brought a sassy new sensibility to historic Georgian Vanderbilt Hall in Newport. The completely redecorated and re-envisioned Hotel/Private Club was unveiled at a recent fund-raising event for Child & Family Services of Newport & Bristol Counties that brought out hundreds to tour the premises and to bid on a live auction conducted by Steve Cascione, ABC6’s versatile weatherman and auctioneer.

Board members and supporters of Child & Family were treated to hors d’oeuvres and wines from Clarke Cooke House and Fluke Restaurant, and excellent passed hors d'oeuvres by Blackstone Caterers. A new outdoor pool has been added, and drew a crowd of diners, who sheltered under tents in a light June rain.

Vanderbilt Hall is now informed by a private collection of American illustration art, one of the largest in the country next to that of Steven Spielberg and George Lucas. Mr. de Savary’s establishment celebrates women – often pin-ups and flirts, many from magazine covers, in both originals and reproductions. With its Monty’s Bar (named after the owner's dog,) and luxurious new spa facilities, it is, for Newport, rather cutting edge.

Illustration art at Vanderbilt Hall

On display were many paintings purchased from Laurence and Judy Cutler of the National Museum of American Illustration, Newport. Some of the artists represented include Hans Flato (1887-1950), Portrait of Marlene Dietrich” The Scarlett Empress 1934; William Soare (1896-1940), “Holiday Cheer” 1935, Earl Bergey (1901-1952), “Girl with Champagne Bottle” 1930, and Earl Steffa Moran (1893-1984), Judy Garland 1954.

Man of the original paintings at Vanderbilt Hall became quite famous magazine covers of the early 20th century. Of the entire collection, Howard Chandler Christy’s (1873-1952), “Jeanie with the light brown hair,” is the most celebrated, as it has never before been seen in public until now. It was sent to Vanderbilt Hall from Mr. de Savary’s private home in England.

Manager Gene Michael Addis in vintage

Lilly Pulitzer

Honorary Chairs for the event were Mr. deSavary, who chatted pleasantly with guests, David Ford, and Nuala Pell. Mary Ambrogi and Geremie Callaghan served as event co-chairs. Spotted were committee member Leith Adams, the irrepressible Gene Michael Addis, Sid Gorham, Richard Carbotti, and Robert del Robbio, of Opera Providence, who provided the singers and music for the evening. Magnificent gift bags included spa discounts and tickets to Newport Restoration Foundation properties.

And yes, the controversy still rages between Mr. de Savary and the Preservation Society of Newport County over whether or not Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt had a mistress, and built Vanderbilt Hall for her.

The event raised $30,000 for Child & Family's programs.