Before Biltmore Estate: Changing Ownership Posted on January 15, 2024 at 4:00 pm.Written by Heather Angel The 8,000 acres of present-day Biltmore Estate have a rich history of inhabitants dating back millennia. In this two-part blog series, we recognize and share a brief history of some of the many people who have called this land home throughout history. The Alexander Mill, pictured here ca. 1888, was located southwest of Biltmore House. Members of the Alexander family were early settlers in this area and sold hundreds of acres of land to George Vanderbilt. Agriculture in the Antebellum Era The State of North Carolina sold the former Cherokee Nation land included within its boundaries through land grants to white landowners in the late 18th and 19th centuries. Though these parcels varied in size, agriculture was a primary use of land in the Asheville area, though not on the scale of the larger plantations elsewhere in the Southeast. Censuses show that prior to the Civil War and emancipation in 1865, there were enslaved people working the farms and living among the white landowners on tracts that now comprise Biltmore Estate. Author Wilma A. Dunaway calculated in her book The First American Frontier that in 1860, 41.7% of farmers in the Appalachian counties of North Carolina were using enslaved labor or a combination of enslaved and tenant labor to work their land. That same year, there were a total of 1,933 enslaved people held in all of Buncombe County. This excerpt from an Asheville Weekly Citizen article dated June 25, 1891, shows the public fascination with George Vanderbilt’s acquisition of land. Arrival of George Vanderbilt In May 1888, 23 years after emancipation, George W. Vanderbilt began purchasing land in the Asheville area through agents. By 1895, he had acquired many parcels totaling around 100,000 acres, which caused quite a buzz in the local community. The landowners that he purchased from included both white and free Black property owners, both of whom by this date had deep roots, if not comparable land ownership histories, in the community. The future site of Biltmore House is pictured here ca. 1889 after it and the surrounding area was acquired from Boston Jenkins and others. New Shiloh Much of the land that makes up the Biltmore House site and nearby areas to the east was previously owned by members of Shiloh. The community of Shiloh consisted of around 28 African-American landowners, with a total population of more than 100 individuals by 1888. Reverend Boston A. Jenkins, one of the trustees of the Shiloh A.M.E. Zion Church, was the former owner of what is today the location of Biltmore House and the adjacent Stable Complex. The prices paid for most of the Shiloh tracts averaged around $37 per acre, which was more than the fair market value at the time. Prices paid by Vanderbilt ranged from a few cents per acre to $1,000 for the one-acre parcel that included the Shiloh Church. Biltmore Estate acquired a tract of land on which an upgraded church building was relocated and subsequently transferred ownership to Shiloh residents. The surrounding community then became known as “New Shiloh.” Archival Guide Map of Biltmore Estate, ca. 1896 Remembering Biltmore’s Residents While many people are familiar with the lives of George and Edith Vanderbilt, it is vital to Biltmore’s cultural history to acknowledge the many individuals who came before the Vanderbilts and who lived and worked on this land since their arrival, including thousands of tenants and employees. While there are many oral histories in Biltmore’s archives that speak to the experience of growing up on these grounds in the 20th century, the stories of most of those who came before have unfortunately been lost to time. In lieu of more detailed or personal accounts of individuals and communities who once lived on this land, it is essential that we acknowledge their existence as a way to honor and remember their lives and legacies. Through environmental stewardship practices, land conservation efforts, and collaborative research projects, Biltmore remains dedicated to being good stewards of this storied land that has been home to so many, including Native Americans, the Shiloh community, and all descendants of the people who came before us. Further Reading For information on Native Americans who once called this land their home, read part one of this blog series, “Before Biltmore Estate: Early Inhabitants.” Additional resources on this topic: Life Beneath The Veneer: The Black Community in Asheville, North Carolina from 1793 to 1900, dissertation by Darin Waters, Ph.D., North Carolina Deputy Secretary for Office of Archives and History Interview with Dr. Darin Waters, “Beneath The Veneer: Did the construction for Biltmore Estate relocate a Black Community?” Shiloh Community Association’s History of Shiloh
A Grand Transformation: The Inn on Biltmore Estate Posted on December 4, 2023 at 10:00 am.Written by Heather Angel After more than 20 years of award-winning excellence, The Inn on Biltmore Estate® is undergoing an inspiring two-year renovation with a complete redesign of guest rooms, suites, and corridors. Take a closer look at the exciting renovations of our four-star Inn and discover the design inspirations that celebrate Biltmore’s storied legacy and the intentional design elements of Biltmore House while maximizing guest comfort. The redesign of The Inn’s guest corridors, rooms, and suites draws inspiration from distinctive architectural details, artwork, and furnishings throughout Biltmore House. Drawing from America’s Largest Home The Inn on Biltmore Estate’s redesign was developed in partnership with the acclaimed global design firm, ROAM Interior Design. The aesthetic is a present-day take on classical European style, incorporating distinctive details drawn from the design, intention, and collection of Biltmore House paired with luxurious amenities for today’s guests. With no detail overlooked, The Inn’s guests will appreciate elements drawn from Biltmore House throughout their stay including bold, nature-inspired wall coverings by William Morris, embossed leathers, quatrefoil designs, carved wood detailing, elegant brass fittings, and artwork recreations from George Vanderbilt’s collection—such as architectural drawings of Biltmore House, animal prints, and floral paintings. The Inn on Biltmore Estate® has been awarded Forbes Four-Star recognition for 23 consecutive years. Crafting a Vanderbilt-Inspired Retreat Blending harmoniously with The Inn’s French chateau-inspired design and drawing from the timeless elegance, eclectic collections, and storied history of Biltmore House, the redesign of the guest rooms and corridors invites you to experience a present-day interpretation of being a welcomed guest of the Vanderbilt family. Each space will feature design elements such as elegant wall coverings and furnishings, hardwood floors, expansive windows, well-appointed amenities, and spa-style bathrooms to create a private sanctuary for your stay. In addition to a warm and welcoming appearance, our guest rooms have been redesigned to improve the use of space, combining function with luxury for guest comfort. Inspired by the Bachelor Wing of Biltmore House, The Inn’s King Rooms feature rich layers of patterns and blue hues reminiscent of the Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. (Rendering by ROAM) The Inn’s Double Rooms draw inspiration from Edith Vanderbilt’s Parisian years and feature light shades of blush and ivory. (Rendering by ROAM) Each of The Inn’s light-filled Suites, such as the James Suite rendered here, features a themed design scheme highlighting the Vanderbilt family, distinguished friends of George Vanderbilt, and a love of nature. (Rendering by ROAM) Welcoming Guests During Renovations The Inn on Biltmore Estate remains open during the renovation, which is set to be completed in two stages from January through March of 2024 and 2025. The first set of The Inn’s newly renovated rooms is available now for spring and summer 2024 stays! To protect the guest experience for which this destination is known, all of our four-star amenities and services will remain available for our guests and work will occur during daytime hours in unoccupied areas of the hotel. Guests who prefer alternative accommodations are invited to book their estate stay at one of our private Cottages or Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate®. “Guests who are familiar with The Inn will be especially delighted by the beautiful updates and thoughtful changes we’ll be making to further enhance your experience every time you join us for a memorable getaway,” says Charles Thompson, Vice President of Resort Experience. We look forward to sharing this inspired transformation with you.
Before Biltmore Estate: Earliest Inhabitants Posted on November 3, 2023 at 11:22 am.Written by Heather Angel The 8,000 acres of present-day Biltmore Estate have a rich history of inhabitants dating back millennia. In this two-part blog series, we recognize and share a brief history of some of the many people who have called this land home throughout history. Modern-day viewshed of Biltmore Estate Early Native American Roots George W. Vanderbilt chose to build his home at this site because of the spectacular mountain views and mild climate. Before his time, there were other reasons why people found this location desirable. Due to the confluence of the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers, groups have settled here for almost 10,000 years. There were also two major trade routes that passed through this region, making it a much-used area for people from near and far. Modern archaeological investigations on Biltmore Estate show evidence of significant Native American occupations. They span many years, dating from the Early Archaic period (ca. 8000 BCE) to the late Pisgah phase (ca. 1500 CE) of the Mississippian period. One of the most significant Native American sites on the estate is known as the “Biltmore Mound and Village Site.” This earthen mound dates to the Connestee phase of the Middle Woodland period (ca. 200–600 CE), or around 1,400–1,800 years ago. Archaeological evidence suggests that the mound, which has been reduced from several hundred years of plowing, served as the substructure for a series of wooden town or council houses. These buildings were used as the civic and ceremonial centers of the surrounding village and the wider Native American settlements in the area. 1884 Royce, C. C. Map of the former territorial limits of the Cherokee “Nation of” Indians from the collection of the Library of Congress, Geography and Map division. Forced Removal of the Cherokee By the time European settlers began arriving in this region in the late 18th century, this land was officially recognized as Cherokee territory. After the Revolutionary War, pressure on Native populations increased. The Cherokee Nation ceded much of the land that nearly 100 years later would make up Vanderbilt’s 125,000-acre estate to the United States government in the Treaty of Holston and the First Treaty of Tellico in the 1790s. These land cessions were made through coercion and encroachment and rarely represented the wishes of the Cherokee people as a whole. The Indian Removal Act of 1830 granted the government the power to relocate tribes to land west of the Mississippi. Five years later, some members of the Cherokee signed the Treaty of New Echota, which paid them $5 million to leave their ancestral lands in the Southeast. The forced migration to the new Indian Territory in what is now Oklahoma in 1838 and 1839 became known as the Trail of Tears. The few who persevered to remain here or return later are the ancestors of the present-day Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI). This tribe now mainly calls the Qualla Boundary their home, located about 40 miles west of Biltmore. In 1890, when Biltmore House was under construction, an Extra Census Bulletin from the U. S. Census Office totaled the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina at 1,520 members. Despite their proximity, there seems to have been little interaction between George Vanderbilt or the estate and the EBCI. One exception is the sale of timber by a group of Cherokees to Carl Schenck during his time as Biltmore’s forester. There are also a few known early employees documented as claiming Cherokee ancestry. This photo taken February 25, 1893, shows progress on Biltmore House and the Walled Garden. The new structures contrast with the residence of the Wright family in the foreground, which was purchased by Vanderbilt in June 1888. Remembering Biltmore’s Residents While many people are familiar with the lives of George and Edith Vanderbilt, it is vital to Biltmore’s cultural history to acknowledge the many individuals who came before the Vanderbilts and who lived and worked on this land since their arrival, including thousands of tenants and employees. While there are many oral histories in Biltmore’s archives that speak to the experience of growing up on these grounds in the 20th century, the stories of most of those who came before have unfortunately been lost to time. In lieu of more detailed or personal accounts of individuals and communities who once lived on this land, it is essential that we acknowledge their existence as a way to honor and remember their lives and legacies. Through environmental stewardship practices, land conservation efforts, and collaborative research projects, Biltmore remains dedicated to being good stewards of this storied land that has been home to so many, including Native Americans, the African American Shiloh community, and all descendants of the people who came before us. Further Reading: For information on the transition of land ownership leading up to George Vanderbilt, read part two of this blog series, “Before Biltmore Estate: Changing Ownership.” Additional resources on this topic: As Long as the Grass Shall Grow: A history of Cherokee land cessions and the formation of Buncombe County, by the Buncombe County Register of Deeds The Trail of Tears: A Story of Cherokee Removal by Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian National Park Service Trail of Tears map and guide.
8 Great Reasons for a Fall Visit to Biltmore Posted on August 15, 2023 at 6:11 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Biltmore Estate’s ever-changing autumnal color, plus its many seasonal activities and offerings, make it the perfect home base for a fall visit. While there are certainly more than 8 great reasons to plan a fall visit to Biltmore, like the fact that the season is prime vacation time for those who love “leaf-peeping” in the Blue Ridge Mountains, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite reasons to add Biltmore to your travel list this fall. Biltmore House surrounded by gorgeous fall color 1. A prime location in Asheville, NC Nestled in the mountains of Western North Carolina, Biltmore is located minutes from downtown Asheville—a vibrant city known for great dining, quaint shops, and its strong arts community—and just a few miles from the Blue Ridge Parkway. In addition to soaking in all that your fall visit to Biltmore has to offer, we recommend enjoying the natural beauty and history of the surrounding area, including Pisgah National Forest. In addition to enjoying our Building Biltmore House exhibition, enhance your visit with a Rooftop Tour that includes spectacular views and stories. 2. Long-range views from the rooftop of America’s Largest Home® Discover spectacular views boasting every shade of fall color as far as the eye can see from Biltmore’s rooftops! This guest-favorite guided tour offers wildly impressive photo ops—during autumn, especially—and provides a closer look at the design and construction of Biltmore House in areas that many guests never visit. Each year, the Walled Garden boasts a new, vibrant display of mums! 3. A festive display of fall colors In addition to the ever-changing hues of the surrounding Blue Ridge Mountains, Biltmore’s gardens and grounds come alive with vibrant mums, colorful floral displays, and fall foliage that you will not want to miss! Even though we don’t officially kick off our Christmas season until early November, you’ll also have the chance to catch a sneak peek of what our team has in store for the upcoming festivities during your fall visit to Biltmore! Learn about Biltmore’s farming history at The Farmyard! 5. Afternoons in Antler Hill Village All aboard for family fun around our charming, European-inspired Antler Hill Village! What better time of year to learn about Biltmore’s farming legacy at Antler Hill Barn and The Farmyard than during harvest season? Savor the bounty of our fields at our estate restaurants and award-winning Winery. Discover stories of the Vanderbilt family and their travels as you experience your own getaway with your loved ones. Explore our 8,000-acre estate by carriage, horseback, and more. 6. Outdoor adventures for all A fall visit to Biltmore beckons you to enjoy the crisp air and glorious fall colors of our great outdoors! Go hiking or biking along our nearly 22 miles of paved and unpaved trails on our private, 8,000-acre estate. Admire the scenery along the French Broad River, through lush green forests, or in the open meadows of the estate. Stop by the Bike Barn or Outdoor Adventure Center in Antler Hill Village for a detailed trail map and orientation. Whether you prefer a relaxing journey in an elegant Carriage Ride or Horseback Trail Ride, few things are as majestic as traveling our woodland trails enveloped in fall color. Grapes are picked by hand in Biltmore’s vineyard on the west side of the estate. 7. Vineyard harvest season Biltmore’s bounty takes center stage at the Winery in Antler Hill Village as we celebrate the harvest season. Savor complimentary tastings of handcrafted wines and learn how science and nature intersect as you learn about the estate’s vineyards, discover the unique factors that affect grapes grown in North Carolina, and take an in-depth look at our winemaking process. Autumn’s beauty is right outside your door with an overnight stay on Biltmore Estate! 8. The ultimate fall getaway An overnight stay on Biltmore Estate offers the unique experience of waking up with sprawling autumnal beauty just outside your door. Enjoy warm hospitality in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at the charming Village Hotel, experience world-class service with a luxurious four-star stay at The Inn, or truly get away this fall with a stay in one of our private, historic Cottages. Plan your getaway and discover for yourself why Biltmore is the perfect home base for your fall visit and year-round with an Annual Pass membership.
George Vanderbilt: An American Renaissance Man Posted on May 25, 2023 at 12:45 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Was George Vanderbilt an American Renaissance man? “He certainly embodied many of the ideals of this period that flourished during his lifetime, and you can still see the influence of the era at Biltmore today,” said Meghan Forest, Associate Curator. What was the American Renaissance? George Vanderbilt (standing, right) traveling in Spain with his cousin Clarence Barker (seated, left), his niece Maria Louisa Schieffelin (seated, right), and her husband William Jay Schieffelin (standing, left), 1891. In the decades following the Civil War, the United States experienced an optimistic rebirth that mirrored the European Renaissance of the 17th century. “The American Renaissance was all about developing a national identity of what it means to be American, and part of that was setting up the United States as the successor to the cultural accomplishments of countries across Europe,” Meghan said. While the European Renaissance had stirred interest in exploration and experimentation in disciplines such as art, architecture, and science, the American Renaissance awakened a desire to explore classic themes and destinations, drawing inspiration from travels abroad to use at home. America’s coming of age The American Renaissance took place in the latter part of the 19th century, marking a renewed confidence in the nation’s outlook with time and attention lavished upon the development of ideas, urbanization, transportation, and new forms of communication. “It was the American Renaissance that made the Gilded Age possible,” said Meghan. “Innovation in technology, propelled by the intellectual energy of the time, led to industrial growth that gave rise to prominent American families like the Vanderbilts.” Once such families became wealthy, many contributed to pushing the arts farther than previous generations, so the American Renaissance ushered in the glamorous Gilded Age. American Renaissance ideals Photograph of Biltmore House and the Italian Garden, ca. 1910 It was during the confluence of both periods that George Vanderbilt first visited Asheville, North Carolina, and became enamored with the area. He envisioned building his new home there, creating a retreat for friends and family that would also showcase his interest in art and literature and house the treasures he collected during his travels. He retained the services of Richard Morris Hunt and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted—two of the most influential designers of the American Renaissance era—to create Biltmore House and its magnificent gardens and grounds. World’s Columbian Exposition (L-R) purchasing agent and agricultural consultant Edward Burnett, architect Richard Morris Hunt, landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, George Washington Vanderbilt, and architect Richard Howland Hunt, son of Richard Morris Hunt, 1892 In 1893, four years after construction began at Biltmore, Chicago hosted the World’s Columbian Exposition. With its remarkable “White City” thoughtfully planned by the nation’s leading designers including Hunt and Olmsted, the extraordinary event further elevated American Renaissance ideals such as world exploration, the experience of different cultures, and new technology like electricity. With Hunt and Olmsted traveling between Asheville and Chicago during this pivotal time to oversee their roles in both massive projects, it was evident that the Columbian Exposition and Vanderbilt’s new estate shared a common thread: both were created in the regal and fashionable Beaux Arts style that favored neoclassical architecture and European-inspired formal gardens. “In addition to Hunt and Olmsted’s presence there, we know that George Vanderbilt attended the Columbian Exposition, and that he contributed materials from Biltmore’s managed forestry initiative for estate forester Gifford Pinchot to display. The flags above the fireplace in the Biltmore House Banquet Hall represent the countries that participated in the Columbian Exposition,” Meghan said. Meaningful travel George Vanderbilt (seated, third from left) with unidentified gondola companions in Venice, 1887. Like many other wealthy Americans of the era, George Vanderbilt traveled extensively, and his trips to Europe, India, and Japan helped fuel his appreciation of history, architecture, and culture. In particular, his sojourns to Rome, Venice, Milan, and Florence—the epicenter of the Italian Renaissance—gave George Vanderbilt a passion for all things Italian, leading him to choose Italy as a romantic backdrop for the first six weeks of his and Edith Vanderbilt’s four-month European honeymoon. Renaissance art and patronage Nocturne: Battersea, c. 1871-1873, James Abbott McNeill Whistler, on display in Oak Sitting Room. George Vanderbilt purchased this piece in 1900 from dealer Wunderlich and Company. In order to succeed during the Italian Renaissance, many artists including Michelangelo, Da Vinci, and Botticelli sought and accepted the patronage of wealthy individuals and entities such as the church and the government in order to create works of lasting beauty. During America’s Renaissance, George Vanderbilt was an active patron of the arts, commissioning and collecting pieces from the new Impressionists as well as many other established artists of his day. Vanderbilt’s support extended beyond the stunning works he purchased; he also provided philanthropic support for certain libraries and art facilities in New York, educational and vocational support in Asheville, and corresponded with several notable artists including Claude Monet, John Singer Sargent, and James McNeill Whistler. Vanderbilt’s lasting legacy Made of Rosso di Verona marble, this fountainhead was likely originally used to decorate and protect an active well in Venice during the Italian Renaissance, c. 1500. It has become known as the “Hunt fountain” as it is depicted in the John Singer Sargent portrait of Biltmore House architect Richard Morris Hunt. The appreciation of man and his capabilities flourished during the American Renaissance, and the nation felt uniquely positioned to take a leading role in the global arena. George Vanderbilt personified the outlook of this important period in our nation’s history, and, as a true American Renaissance man, his contributions continue to stand the test of time. Today, you can explore lingering expressions of the American Renaissance with a visit to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. Highlights include America’s Largest Home®, still filled with many of the more than 50,000 objects in Biltmore’s collection, plus 75 acres of exquisitely landscaped and preserved formal gardens that gradually give way to meadows, fields, and managed forests surrounding the property. Plan your Biltmore visit now Visit like a Vanderbilt when you choose one of our private, historic Cottages on Biltmore Estate. Surround yourself with the architecture, travel, and art of the American Renaissance, and make your time with us even more unforgettable with an overnight retreat at one of our thoughtfully designed properties: Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate®, The Inn on Biltmore Estate®, or our historic private Cottages on Biltmore Estate™.
Off The Beaten Path: Hidden Gems of Biltmore Posted on February 13, 2023 at 5:27 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Discover the “hidden gems” of Biltmore Estate–special spots that may be off the beaten path, but are worth exploring during your next visit to this welcoming destination in Asheville, NC. “Our guests tend to be familiar with Biltmore House and its historic gardens, but there are many hidden gems around the property that you might miss if you’re not looking for them,” said Bill Quade, Director of Horticulture. The Vista and statue of Diana Statue of Diana overlooking Biltmore House At the top of the long, sloping Vista overlooking Biltmore House, you’ll find a marble statue of Diana, Roman goddess of the hunt, under a wooden arbor. Accompanied by one of her dogs, she gazes out over the landscape. “The statue is beautiful all by itself,” said Bill, “but when you combine it with a perfect view of Biltmore House framed by the Blue Ridge Mountains beyond it, it’s a spectacular place to have a picnic or watch the sunset.” The sloping lawn below the statue of Diana offers picnickers a perfect view of Biltmore House! Tip: The area behind the statue of Diana is a popular site for weddings and group events, so it may be tented, especially during summer and fall. The Bass Pond is one of Biltmore’s hidden gems The view of the Bass Pond from the Boat House is worth the walk! The Bass Pond is located at the end of Biltmore’s formal gardens, and though it’s a bit of a walk, the end result is well worth it. “Keep following the path through the Azalea Garden and you’ll come out at the Bass Pond,” Bill said. “There’s a rustic boathouse on the shore and a bridge over the waterfall at the far end. It’s a beautiful spot for seasonal color and birdwatching.” The Bass Pond offers wonderful opportunities to view the wilder side of the estate! Tip: The return trip to Biltmore House is uphill, so take your time and set your own pace. If you don’t have time to walk to the Bass Pond, you can drive to it and use one of the convenient pullouts along the way to park your car and admire this hidden gem designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the estate’s landscape architect. Explore the Conservatory The Conservatory in the Walled Garden is a hidden gem that’s worth exploring in every season. Created as both an indoor garden filled with tropical treasures and a production greenhouse for nurturing plants, the Conservatory forms the back wall of the formal English-style Walled Garden. “The design of Biltmore’s Conservatory was a collaboration between Biltmore’s architect Richard Morris Hunt and landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted,” Bill said. “And we still maintain the original intent to showcase exotic specimens like orchids and palms, and we also grow some of the plants we use around the estate, like a portion of our Christmas poinsettias.” There are hidden gems within the Conservatory, like the fragrant flowers of this Pink Ball Tree (Dombeya wallichii) Tip: There is always something blooming inside the Conservatory! Linger by the Lagoon The Lagoon offers a striking reflection of the west side of Biltmore House. Just below the 250-acre Deer Park portion of the estate, Frederick Law Olmsted created the Lagoon as a peaceful, natural water feature that also serves to reflect the west facade of Biltmore House. “The Lagoon is raised above the level of the French Broad River that flanks it, which helps keep the water at a more consistent level,” Bill noted. “It’s a great spot to relax and enjoy a picnic or watch for wildlife and waterfowl in every season. Many guests drive right by it on their way to Antler Hill Village and don’t realize they’ve missed another of Biltmore’s hidden gems.” Tip: If you’re looking for a flat, easy trail with lovely views, park at Antler Hill Village and bike or walk the paved path all the way to the Lagoon and back. Learn more about hiking and biking on Biltmore Estate and download our Trail Map on our Activities page. More hidden gems of Biltmore Estate: Hidden Gem: Antler Hill Village. This European-inspired village celebrates our estate agricultural legacy with learning experiences, field-to-table dining, outdoor adventure, unique shops and restaurants, and our award-winning Winery. × Hidden gem: In late summer months, sunflowers line the path from Antler Hill Village to the Lagoon. × Hidden gems: meet friendly farm animals at the Farmyard in Antler Hill Village. × Hidden gems: discover beautiful views along our network of hiking and biking trails. × Hidden gems: discover colorful koi in the Italian Garden pools × Hidden gems: explore a world of outdoor sculpture at Biltmore, like this cherub in the Italian Garden. × Hidden gems: a winged dragon carved into the base of a stone fountain near the Front Door of Biltmore House. × Hidden gems: the booths inside Stable Café are the original horse stalls from the estate’s stable complex! × Hidden gems: three large bronze turtle fountains at the base of the Rampe Douce were designed to handle the overflow from the estate’s reservoir system. × While we invite all our guests to enjoy finding some of these often-overlooked areas during your next visit, you may want to consider the benefits of purchasing a Biltmore Annual Pass. As a Passholder, you’ll receive exclusive benefits such as FREE unlimited visits for the next 12 months to discover your own hidden gems in every season! Featured image: The Conservatory is a hidden gem of Biltmore that offers a tropical escape any time of year!
Plan A Romantic Getaway to Biltmore Posted on January 7, 2023 at 11:44 am.Written by Jean Sexton When you’re longing for time away with your beloved, Biltmore serves up the ultimate romantic escape whether you’re seeking a private retreat for renewed connections or fun-filled adventures in the great outdoors. Follow our expert tips and inspiration for planning your next romantic getaway to Biltmore Estate in Asheville, NC. Enjoy the great outdoors together on your next romantic date or getaway at Biltmore! Explore the estate together Create new memories by enjoying the outdoors together while exploring the grounds of George Vanderbilt’s 8,000-acre Blue Ridge Mountain estate. “I can’t think of anything much more romantic than a carriage ride across this stunning estate,” said Heather Brannan, Outdoor Adventure Center Supervisor, “but Biltmore offers so many activities that you’re sure to find something that delights both of you.” Carriage and trail rides Enjoy Biltmore’s property from a different perspective with a carriage or trail ride. Choose guided or private options to suit your style and abilities. Biking and hiking Delight in Frederick Law Olmsted’s distinctive landscape design as you explore the trails at Biltmore. Walk, hike, rent a bike, or pedal your own to get a firsthand view of the estate. Wellness activities Indulge in some self-care as a couple with thoughtful options that quiet your mind and refresh your spirits, such as Morning Yoga or our deliciously relaxing Chocolate Meditation. Falconry is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to interact with one of these majestic birds of prey. Adventure awaits Team up with your significant other for an adventure that may take you out of your comfort zone, but will also bring you closer together as you learn new skills with the help of our expert guides. Land Rover® Experience at Biltmore Go off-roading in luxury when you engage in a Land Rover® Experience at Biltmore. Book a one- or two-hour session and receive expert training to maneuver on unfamiliar terrain. Extend the adventure with a full-day excursion that includes a mid-day break for a private picnic lunch–now that’s romantic! Falconry Let romance take flight as you experience the ancient art of falconry together. Learn about these fascinating birds of prey as well as hawks and barn owls, and receive expert training on handling and interacting with these captivating raptors. Make a morning reservation for Biltmore House and feel like a guest of the Vanderbilts. Rise and shine Beth Poslusny, Vice President of Destination Guest Experience, suggests making it a truly romantic getaway with accommodations and special packages at The Inn on Biltmore Estate®, Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate® or one of our private historic cottages. “You’ll have the unique opportunity to awaken on the estate,” said Beth, “and there’s no better way to start a special day together!” Make your date or getaway more romantic with the addition of a Behind-the-Scenes Guided Tour: The Biltmore House Backstairs Tour offers enthralling stories of domestic staff while exploring their lives and the areas where they worked. Our Rooftop Tour offers a bird’s eye view of the house, with fascinating little-known details about the construction and design of the 175,000-square-foot home. Enjoy our Red Wine and Chocolate Tasting featuring premium Biltmore wines and artisan chocolate truffles from French Broad Chocolates. 📷 by @chelseaericasmith and @thewineshutter Table for two As part of your romantic date or getaway, make time to wine and dine on the estate with your special someone. WinerySurprise your significant other by booking a Red Wine & Chocolate Tasting and learn why the flavors are a match made in heaven–just like the two of you! Round out the romance with the following options: Reserve time for a complimentary tasting where you’ll learn about Biltmore’s winemaking heritage. Unwind at the indoor-outdoor Wine Bar to enjoy Biltmore wines with charcuterie, cheese, and chocolates, then stock up on favorite vintages and accessories at the Wine Shop. Rekindle your memories at home with a membership in our Vanderbilt Wine Club®. Delicious Dining“From fine dining to casual, quick-service options and sweet treats, Biltmore offers fabulous flavors to suit every taste,” said Estate Executive Chef Mark DeMarco. “Something as simple as sipping hot chocolate from The Creamery while you stroll around Antler Hill Village can make any date more memorable.” For the ultimate romantic dinner, Chef DeMarco suggests reserving a table for two in The Dining Room at The Inn on Biltmore Estate–both the restaurant and The Inn have earned a prestigious Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating for world-class service and gracious hospitality. Plan your next romantic date or getaway now No matter what activities light your fire, the variety of things to do at Biltmore will provide the perfect spark for your next romantic date or getaway. Visit Tip: Available guided activities vary throughout the year. We recommend checking our current activities online in advance to make the most of your romantic getaway to Biltmore.
Our Holiday Gingerbread House Was Built To Last Posted on September 25, 2022 at 12:24 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Biltmore’s holiday gingerbread house was built to last–mostly because it’s not really made from real gingerbread! Although the fanciful replica of America’s Largest Home® appears to be constructed from freshly baked gingerbread that’s been decorated with swirls of snowy icing and old-fashioned candy details, it’s actually an incredibly detailed work of art from our friends at Applied Imagination. Once finished, the faux gingerbread version of Biltmore House had to be carefully transported from Applied Imagination’s workshop in Alexandria, KY, to Asheville, NC These talented artists specialize in handcrafting architectural models, sculptures, and garden railways out of natural materials. They created all of our Biltmore Gardens Railway displays and Ciao! From Italy Sculptural Postcards in Antler Hill Village now through February 19, 2024. In past years, our talented Biltmore Estate pastry chefs created real confectionary replicas of Biltmore House, but it was always a monumental task that took weeks to complete and needed a lot of space to assemble. It was also challenging to transport the finished gingerbread house to the Main Kitchen without losing some wreaths and roof tiles along the way! A firm foundation Jason Pleva puts finishing touches on his scale model of Biltmore House In 2017, Jason Pleva, a member of Biltmore’s carpentry team, used the plans of Biltmore House to build a wooden scale model that could be used as a base for a gingerbread house. It was a good solution that shaved off a lot of construction time, but unfortunately, our chefs found that decorative icing doesn’t cling to wood as well as it does to gingerbread.Because we’d had so many wonderful experiences with Applied Imagination and the amazing structures they’d created for our Biltmore Gardens Railway displays, we asked if the artists could tackle this Christmas conundrum for us, using Jason’s model as a base for a gingerbread house that would be as long lasting as it was beautiful. In September 2021, Stephanie Winters, Creative Director/Lead Sculptor, and Ava Roberts, Assistant Sculptor, of Applied Imagination finished their version of America’s Largest Home®. The results were breathtaking, and our “gingerbread house” now takes place of pride in our Main Kitchen during Christmas at Biltmore. Fun facts from the gingerbread construction project: Time to complete: 1200 hours over the course of five months Measurements: 78½” wide x 32” deep x 32” high (including spires) Building materials Applied Imagination created wonderful details, right down to the beloved marble lions at the Front Door of Biltmore House Gingerbread Cookie Base Tile grout mixed with Mod Podge® Matte and sponged onto 3/16” Gatorboard shapes Wavy Shingled Roof Wooden fan handles covered with tile grout and Mod Podge Windows and Mullions Window panes created with modeling dowel rods and architectural modeling materials (bass wood). Windows created with poured casting resin sprinkled with clear glitter. Textured windows (exterior staircase) have the addition of large, granular, clear beads mixed with resin. Windows backed with gold shimmer paper to resemble the effect of being lit within. Spires on Roof, Staircase Facade, Window Tops, Railing Tops Antique glass headpins; large and small twist shapes in dark green, light green, purple, and pale ice; top spires painted antique gold Piped Icing Shapes All piped icing that makes up the majority of detail on the Biltmore House model was created completely by hand with Liquid Sculpey® (polymer clay). Shapes were formed using latex cake-decorating molds. Snow Blanket Spackling paste to create a base for sculpting and building shapes Clear glass diamond glitter was sprinkled on wet paste to give snow drifts and mounds the look of fresh powder Trees and Bushes Dry floral design cones and spheres, further sculpted by hand to resemble pine tree shapes. Finished with paint and landscape modeling greenery. Biltmore Lions Paper clay and white acrylic paint with a small amount of gold tinted glitter/mica. Garland Thin and flexible English faux pine rope Faux miniature boxwood/bay leaf roping Feathery evergreen (lions’ necks) Floral accents: faux red and gold berries; red velvet and gold-backed ribbon hand-fashioned into miniature bows The gingerbread house takes place of pride in the Main Kitchen during Christmas at Biltmore Candy decorations Faux Candy Decorations Resin gumdrops and gummies (edge and facade details) Sculpey clay chocolate swirls (base of the spires) Chocolate shavings, glass glitter (soot/embers in chimney tops, base of lions, base of spires, front facade details) Resin chocolate pretzels (fancy railings) Resin chocolate chips (spires inset) Small sugared gum drops, glass/plastic headpins (main detail throughout in purple, orange, yellow, red, green) Variety of candy colored balls of various sizes (beads and headpins) Sculpey clay swirled balls (small detail elements) Cut Cinnamon Sticks Facade details, small railings, wrought iron base for spires Peppermint Sticks Small (vintage paper hand-rolled on dowel rods) Large sticks on main facade (decorative paper on dowel rods) Peppermint balls on main facade (vintage spun cotton and thread) Gumballs, Gingerballs, Round Bulb Ornaments Green and red faux floral berries, gold- and silver-painted floral berries, painted beads Celebrate Christmas at Biltmore The Banquet Hall Christmas Tree is a favorite holiday tradition To see this marvelous piece of eye candy displayed in the Main Kitchen, make reservations for a holiday visit during our annual Christmas at Biltmore celebration, November 3, 2023–January 7, 2024, in Asheville, NC.
Asheville Artist Reproduces Biltmore Sculpture Posted on June 21, 2022 at 2:04 pm.Written by Jean Sexton Asheville artist Alex Irvine has reproduced a Biltmore sculpture, and we couldn’t be more pleased with the wonderful results! Biltmore sculpture removed for preservation Known as Woman Reading with Dog, this charming depiction of a young woman reading a book with her canine companion at her knees was originally installed on the Library Terrace at Biltmore House. Artist Alex Irvine worked from the original Biltmore sculpture in his Asheville-area studio to create two new versions for display at the estate. Like many of the other sculptures found throughout Biltmore’s historic gardens, Woman Reading with Dog was French in origin. It was produced by Gossin Frères of Paris, a firm well known for their ornamental terra cotta fabrications. After many years of exposure to the elements, Biltmore’s original sculpture had become unstable due to heavy deterioration, and was removed from the Library Terrace for preservation purposes. Asheville artist commissioned to create new Biltmore sculpture “We commissioned a replica from Asheville artist Alex Irvine after he worked with Biltmore’s conservation team on a project that involved recreating a missing arm and floral garland for a terra cotta sculpture located on the South Terrace of Biltmore House,” said Kara Warren, Preventive Conservation Specialist. “We’re fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such an exceptionally skilled ceramic artist who is located just miles from Biltmore Estate.” To reproduce Woman Reading with Dog, Alex employed a multi-step process similar to the one used to create the original sculpture. He began his work by hand building the figure out of clay, scaling it 9% larger than the original to account for shrinkage during the drying and firing of the clay. The entire commission took more than two years to complete. Original terra cotta sculpture (left); new copy (right) being hand-built around a metal armature that will help support the weight of the clay. × (L-R) The original sculpture and the new clay sculpture that will be used in the plaster mold of the final version. The arms are cast and fired separately. × The original sculpture was created by Gossin Frères of Paris. The re-creation is a perfect copy that includes the firm’s mark. × The mold for the new sculpture included 50 different sections, like this piece for one of the hands. × The sculpture’s arms were cast and fired separately from the rest of the figure and attached with steel pins the day after the sculpture was installed on the Library Terrace. × The newly re-created “Woman Reading with Dog” sculpture out of the kiln after being fired. × A close up of the sculpture reveals her serene expression and the beautiful detailing of her face and features. × Kara Warren, Preventive Conservation Specialist, discusses the sculpture with artist Alex Irvine in his studio. Credit: The Biltmore Company × The next step was the creation of a 50-part plaster mold of the replicated statue. The mold was assembled on the floor of the kiln in stages to allow access for handfuls of clay to be pressed into the mold to produce a hollow cast. The legs inside the garment and internal structure were hand-built with slabs of clay. Once cast, the surface details were refined again in preparation for firing. The clay statue was slowly dried over six months and then fired very slowly to 2100ºF in a one-of-a-kind electric kiln built for this commission. Installation of the new sculpture The reproduction of Woman Reading with Dog was installed on the Library Terrace, in the same location as the original. The replica of “Woman Reading with Dog” was carefully crated in Alex Irvine’s studio for its trip to the Library Terrace at Biltmore House. Her arms were attached with steel pins after installation was complete. × Alex Irvine, Kara Warren, and Trip Hudgins, Engineering Operations Manager, assist with the sculpture’s installation on the Library Terrace. × Asheville artist Alex Irvine oversees the prepping of the original limestone plinth on which the sculpture will be installed. × Delicate details like the dog’s tail could easily break during installation, so the artist and members of our Museum Services team handle the project with great care. × The final step of the process was to attach the sculpture’s arms with steel pins once the main installation was complete. × From this angle, you can see some of the wonderful details of the sculpture’s hand and arm, draped fabric, and even the dog’s teeth! × See preservation in action at Biltmore “Woman Reading with Dog” installed on the Library Terrace of Biltmore House In addition to viewing Woman Reading with Dog on the Library Terrace of Biltmore House, you can also view a second reproduction of this sculpture that was made as part of the process. The sculpture will be displayed in a niche in the back courtyard of Village Hotel on Biltmore Estate®.
Cedric the St. Bernard: Biltmore’s Very Good Boy Posted on June 7, 2022 at 3:29 pm.Written by Amy Dangelico Cedric, a smooth coat St. Bernard, was a loyal companion to George Vanderbilt. Though we aren’t sure exactly how George came to own Cedric, we do know he was brought to the estate from Point d’Acadie, George’s summer home in Bar Harbor, sometime around the opening of Biltmore House in 1895. Cedric was likely 1-3 years old at this time. Cedric, George Vanderbilt, and honeymooners Jay Burden and Adele Sloan, George’s niece, June 1895. This is one of the earliest photos of Cedric in the Biltmore House collection. Archival records reveal that Cedric received a lot of leeway around the estate. Correspondence from Biltmore House guests indicates that he had free reign on the first floor. He could often be found sunning on the Loggia or lying on the Library floor. He’s also seen in several pictures taken outdoors during Biltmore’s early days. Cedric sunbathing on the Loggia, ca. 1900. The massive St. Bernard was known to lounge and sometimes snooze in various locations through the first floor of Biltmore House. Cedric was a true member of the Vanderbilt family and was treated as such. In addition to a couple of close friends and employees, Cedric was one of the few attendees at a private ceremony during which George and Edith Vanderbilt oversaw the planting of a commemorative tree to honor the birth of their daughter Cornelia in 1900. George Vanderbilt, Cedric, and Cornelia Vanderbilt being held by her nanny at the planting of Cornelia’s “Baby Tree”, October 1900. The photograph was likely taken by Edith Vanderbilt. By 1901, there was a whole family of St. Bernards living at Biltmore, all adored by the Vanderbilts and their guests alike. In a letter to his wife, Joseph Hodges Choate, the American Ambassador to Great Britain and Biltmore House guest, wrote: “I shall not attempt to describe the house, which is obviously the finest in America, but the dogs are truly magnificent … I wish you could see these great St. Bernards—five of them, father, mother and three children, all big and splendid. They seem to fill the billiard-room and are most affectionate.” Cedric dozing in the Library of Biltmore House, ca. 1896. The beloved St. Bernard was known to sprawl out and relax where ever George Vanderbilt was. George Vanderbilt gifted St. Bernards (believed to have been sired by Cedric) to friends and family. In 1902, George’s friend the Right Rev. William Croswell Doane lost his faithful St. Bernard named Cluny, so George gave him a puppy named Balder. A few years later, George and Edith also gave a St. Bernard puppy to their nephew John Nicholas Brown, who named the dog Cedric. Cornelia with one of her St. Bernards on the Esplanade of Biltmore House, ca. 1903. Sadly, Cedric died in 1902 at Buckspring Lodge, where he was buried. To commemorate the occasion, Biltmore House guest Charlotte Pendleton wrote a poem in his honor, entitled Cedric: A Sonetto in Rondo, in the Nonsense Book. Cedric on the Rampe Douce of the Esplanade in front of Biltmore House. This photograph accompanied a poem in the Biltmore House Nonsense Book honoring Cedric when he passed away in 1902. Cedric Sonetto in Rondo The Moses of your canine race On Pisgah’s sapphire heights you strayed Among her pink beds low you laid Upon the high and lovely place; You down to die where there is space, Amid cathedral pine arrayed With plumed crest and views that braid Their columned stems with waving grace. For your great body to lie down Most fully housed, walk spreading skies On beds of spicy needles, brown, Fragrant; couched in majesty, Rapt in deep solitude, a woven gown Of shrouded mystery. Measuring more than 33 inches around, Cedric’s original leather collar attests to the impressive size and heft of the Vanderbilts’ favorite breed. Today, we honor the legacy of Cedric the St. Bernard, Biltmore’s very good boy, with his eponymous restaurant: Cedric’s Tavern in Antler Hill Village. On your next estate visit, be sure to check out the many photographs of Cedric on the tavern’s walls as well as the display of his impressive leather collar.