In the late 19th century a number of “Gentleman’s Farms” were created in South Portsmouth including Glen Farm, Sandy Point Farm, Oakland Farm, and others.
These were extensive farms of 150 acres or more. That area of town was the center of the town’s agrarian life. The owners were mostly from New York City, although some sought relief from the business of life on Bellevue Avenue in Newport.
This lecture focused on Oakland Farm and the Gibbs, Belmont and especially the Vanderbilt families who passed through there.
Oakland Farm was the center of a great deal of activity in the community and the main residence of a Rhode Island Governor.
