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.
Interesting to note that the wreaking company that Dismantled The Oakland farm colonial mansion in 1940s.
That it was reported to have been salvedged ,to be rebuilt elsewhere . The post an beam part of the original Gambrel style colonial home .
Witness account , but will it ever be solved were it was rebuilt .
Also part of a Portsmouth early interior is in the Metropolitan museum of art, from The Metcalf Bowler house
Mt. Kisco, NY, mentioned in one of the lectures, is not near Albany. Instead, Mt. Kisco is in Southern New York in Westchester County, near Westchester Airport, about 25 miles from New York city.
Thakn you Laura. I will send your comment to Jim Garman, the author.