Nemours, located in Wilmington, DE, was the estate of Alfred I. Du Pont (another of the Du Pont Family - reading up a bit on them, living proof that money creates as many problems in families as it solves). It is 400 acres and includes what are billed as the largest French Gardens in the United States. On the estate is also the 77 room mansion, furnished just as it was back in the day (some amazing pieces of artwork). Pictures without words here; again, another place we got to with not quite enough time to truly enjoy everything. Also highly recommended.
Beautiful place. It reminds me somewhat of the Biltmore Estate in Asheville NC. I especially like the planted pond. Does anyone still live in the mansion?
ReplyDeleteNot anymore, Leigh. Du Pont's spouse survived him by 35 years but it appears the bulk of the time, they spent their married life in Florida. Certainly fair to say it was not a primary residence. She passed away in 1970.
DeletePer Wiki a foundation operates the estate/gardens. Thanks for the continued tour TB, good shots there.
ReplyDeleteThere is a foundation, Nylon12. A great deal of this particular Du Pont's estate was used for the founding of Nemours Children's hospital, which is adjacent to the grounds.
DeleteAs much as I dislike huge estates like this which drain our world of money and resources (thinking of all the carbon that went into the building and maintaining of it and how we are now paying the price for that carbon in our atmosphere), I'm happy to see that many have been opened up to the public in various forms for our enjoyment.
ReplyDeleteEd, I am somewhat ambivalent. On the one hand, it does represent a great many resources; on the other hand, the artwork and grounds would likely not have preserved any other way. Certainly not by any government agency, who inevitably looks for the lowest cost option.
DeleteGorgeous place. I would not want to live there even if I had the money; but that's what the rich do, I guess..
ReplyDeleteThanks again, TB.
You all be safe and God bless.
Linda, it was ostentatious to the point of not being able to live there, at least for me. But fun to look at.
DeleteThat is one gorgeous pool of water and water garden.
ReplyDeleteBecki, the water gardens both here and at Longwood were amazing!
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