It’s no secret that the Biltmore Estate is a masterpiece of architecture, innovation, and landscape design! But did you know that Biltmore has supported the literary arts for well over 100 years?
One of the recent exhibits on the estate, “Designed for Drama,” featured costumes from movies based on books. It included displays from Sherlock Holmes and Finding Neverland, among others. But supporting the literary arts goes back even further, to the home’s creator George Vanderbilt.
George Vanderbilt was a voracious reader, collector, lover, and sharer of books. During the late 19th century, when New York City was pioneering its free circulating library system, Vanderbilt filled the Jackson Square Branch with a large donation of books. Once his elaborate home was complete, Vanderbilt welcomed many guests to the estate, including esteemed authors Henry James and Edith Wharton, the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize.
Wharton’s first signature in the mansion’s guest book is dated November 1902. It is likely that while she was there, the home was bustling with guests admiring the elegant decor being arranged for the upcoming holiday season.
Today, guests still visit the Biltmore Estate throughout the year, but especially during the holiday season. With candlelight ceremonies, live carolers, and a uniquely decorated tree in every room, the house is a sight to behold!
We recommend celebrating Christmas at the Biltmore House. But if you can’t make it this year, here’s a quick glimpse of some of our favorite holiday decorations on display this season. Enjoy!
