August tours explore the end of the Gilded Age
Staatsburgh State Historic Site this summer will present a “World War I and the End of the Gilded Age” tour, which will focus on the impact of the war on the social elite and their way of life.
Staatsburgh was the home of prominent social hostess Ruth Livingston Mills and her husband, financer Ogden Mills. The 79-room mansion showcases the opulent lifestyle enjoyed by the wealthy elite of the early 20th century.
“World War I and the End of the Gilded Age” will explore how the cataclysm of World War I brought an end to the extravagant excesses of the Gilded Age. Revolutionary social changes in the war years — including the income tax — killed the Gilded Age and ushered in a new era. Staatsburgh remains a time capsule of the Gilded Age, with its original lavish furnishings intact.
“World War I and the End of the Gilded Age” will be offered on Sundays at 1 p.m. on Aug. 9, 16 and 23. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 845-889-8851, ext. 355. The admission charge for the tour is $10; seniors and students pay $8; children 12 and under are free.
Staatsburgh State Historic Site offers regularly scheduled house tours in addition to special theme tours. House tours are regularly offered Thursday to Sunday between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. through October. The historic site and Ogden Mills and Ruth Livingston Mills Memorial State Park are located on Old Post Road in Staatsburg, off Route 9 between Rhinebeck and Hyde Park.
