The Real Sylvia Chamberlain From The Gilded Age: Inside the Huntington’s Manhattan Mansion

Have you ever watched 'The Gilded Age' and wondered about the real people behind the characters? Meet Arabella Huntington, the inspiration for Sylvia Chamberlain. Arabella was the original social climber whose dramatic life story could rival any TV plot.
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[@DannyKoKo]

First

[@atomicwedgie8176]

Your reward, will be the honor of escorting my fat neighbor to the ball... well done, Sir!

[@lisab2543]

Breaks my heart that all that beautiful architecture and craftsmanship is gone. 😢

[@paco7992]

Not all, but tragically most.

[@wildfireintexas]

I wish I could give this comment 1k 👍🏻.

[@ianmayes8072]

Truly ugly exteriors.

[@atomicwedgie8176]

Single family home no one can afford.

[@paco7992]

This format was nice. You really are becoming the authority on these topics. The growth from those "realtor" videos at the beginning to what you are producing now is remarkable. You have an endearing personality and an engaging presence. Thank you for choosing to share your love.

[@joantrainor6584]

Social acceptance is a poor replacement for self acceptance. What a sad life she seems to have had.

[@paco7992]

Wow! What a great comment. Complex. Image the days she hid behind the curtains staring at the house across the street and the echoes of the maid staff as the only sound.

[@firstimpressions8360]

And what a sad state society is in when the elite refuse to accept someone who wasn’t born into wealth. Not much has changed unfortunately.

[@Lavo68]

Sad, but for a widow living in the 1890’s she was extremely comfortable.

[@jamesslick4790]

Physically, yeah but probably not mentally. @@Lavo68

[@fryone]

From what I heard, she married her nephew and barely visited their estate in San Marino California, its now a foundation called "the huntington museum" I think. She was rumored to ravage european museums buying stuff, called a yankee medici and all. She was in the public's eye a lot

[@janedee6488]

I like the storytelling format. It’s interesting to find out about their lives. Nice work.

[@sergpie]

Excellent narration in this episode. The grand hall of this mansion really echoed the aspirations it’s owners had. Interesting to hear about the quality of its construction, and how because of it, it hindered demolition. Almost like the building was clinging-on to this world.

[@proudvirginian]

The type of people who would probably be living in what is now their current neighbor's building. No sympathy for the "unfortunate" woman and her horrible husband. Nice narration style. That said i like your presentation either way. Very good, historical descriptions.

[@StamperWendy]

This is what Manhattan looked like when my 18 yr old great grandmother stepped off the ship in 1888 (from Denmark) and was processed through Castle Garden. She stayed in Manhattan, married and raised 4 sons and a stepson.

[@dmd5645]

Loved this presentation, Ken!. Showcases the toll "social acceptance" and "climbing" of that and ANY time period. It simply DOESN'T matter!. If you possess these "things" because you simply love them, then awesome! You appreciate beauty. But if you possess these things because of trying to impress, then it's going to be a millstone around your neck that will completely drown you. It's ALL God's, you just get to take care of it for a season. You and Jesus are what ultimately matters!.

[@TarynToday]

I find this video especially well done. It's such a shame so many of these very fine homes are gone. Thank you for making these.

[@LJB103]

I once read a description of this mansion as looking like a Middle European train station. I agree (exterior). This has never been one of my favorite NYC mansions. The widowed Mrs. Collis P. Huntington next became Mrs. Henry Huntington when she married her late husband's nephew (They were about 1 year apart in age). Please do a video on their truly magnificent mansion/estate: San Marino in Pasadena, CA. Excellent video.

[@LSTEdD1]

Excellent information! Archer Huntington went on to found The Hispanic Society a museum in upper Manhattan which exists to thus day. It has beautiful murals of Spain by famous painter Joaquin Sorolla, Goya, and Velasquez paintings.

[@bobeg749]

I liked the new format too. There was more human interest. But Arabella didn’t sadly fade away. She remarried, and her new husband, Henry Huntington, was Collis Huntingtom’s nephew. Together they became noted philanthropists and founded the Henry Huntington Library in California. Her son, Archer Huntington, founded the Hispanic Society in New York.

[@V1admir]

Loved the new format. I was surprised you didn't mention the vast Huntington Estate in Los Angeles too-- I would have loved to better understand how all of thier homes related to each other, not just thier NYC property

[@stevem.8339]

Always enjoyed seeing the home and library in San Marino, CA- Gainsboroughs “Pinkie “ and “Blue Boy” there as well as one of the Gutenberg Bibles.

[@JimBerrongYouTube]

I prefer this style of presentation. It comes across as a natural evolution. Thank you for your dedication to sharing this history of the mansions and their families.

[@rorymacleod6101]

I absolutely love the way this story was told. So emotional

[@garryferrington811]

I enjoyed this presentation, Ken. It put me in mind of Lucius Beebe's great (albeit forgotten) book "The Big Spenders," with it's wonderful anecdotal accounts of the rich and famous of about the same era. The final picture - Mrs. Huntington wandering through her colossal mansion alone and forgotten - how poignant! How sad!

[@maryannruffini2169]

Love the format. Thank you

[@williamtyre523]

Great video, I really enjoyed the deep dive into the sad story behind the beautiful limestone walls. Alas, money can't buy happiness!

[@crystalpoole1560]

Your videos are well done, as always.

[@PA-of6lr]

My boyfriend and I are both from the UK - if we are ever talking about a house we pass - will always say it the way you say it "this house" in your accent 😄 love these vids. The gilded age was a different way of life

[@carlzapffe7858]

Very well done. Nice format. My guess would be that “The Gilded Age” on HBO largely portrayed the life of this couple.

[@wendyrhodes4745]

If you think about it, she actually had the last laugh in the end…Tiffany & Co, one of the most iconic, most visited stores ever, chose to build their store in the place she chose to build her home. They didn’t go to her “home” then, but they flock to it now😉

[@carlawilson3745]

I found it very interesting, it plays to the side. Not just the history buff.

[@The_Smith]

I liked the format Ken, quite the interesting story, gave me feelings of the social cliches in highschool . . . but by adults who 'should' know better.

[@twanohguy]

Ken, this format was great! You didn't seem in such a hurry and the information was more of a story than a description. I vote to keep it if you can find the resources necessary. Well Done!

[@superdougie10]

I like all of your format's, this is a really great channel and I have been watching since your early days just with homes in Missouri. This format was good as well all the others. Thanks so much for having these video's for all of the public to enjoy.

[@andrewbrendan1579]

Ken, I enjoyed the biographical information along with the historical, yet what a sad story. Still i'm reminded of that great line from the movie "The Best of Everything" in which Amanda says to one of young womene who works for her: "Gregg, I've had more experience than you and for experience to be of value somehow someone must learn by it". Arabella Huntington's life story can be a lesson to us even today.

[@BarbBates-ml2hp]

I like this format. We got to see the house but also a little more history about the people that owned it

[@marciafallon7653]

Any format you work with comes out well. It’s your content and narration that is captivating. Well done.

[@bettynewton6160]

I’m pretty new to the channel. I like that you tell some of the story. But I wish you’d show more pictures of the interior and talk about some of the details. Maybe you do on some of the places built after photography became more popular. But thank you for showing us some of these beautiful places.

[@wdjones4735]

I like the new presentation! Keep up the great work👍🏻🙂👏🏻

[@megfuchs9425]

I like hearing the stories about the people, but I would have liked to see more interior pictures. That is what drew me to this channel to begin with. This story just made sad all the way around!

[@donjohnson3701]

Interesting mansion; however, Arabella went on to marry Henry Huntington (Collis Huntington’s nephew). Both Henry and Arabella are buried in San Marino, CA at the Huntington Library. Interesting tidbit, after Collis died, Arabella gifted to start the first cancer research hospital which later became the Memorial Sloane Kettering Cancer Center.

[@Mistydazzle]

I liked this format. Thank you for the history!

[@robertc.delmedico6242]

Liked the format!!! My family and I just toured the huntington library and botanical gardens near Pasadena!! Didn't know about their early life!😮

[@user-zh7mw8do4n]

I liked it much better. Thank you for the interesting story and photos.

[@bowiearcangeli11]

A beautiful house, but a very sad story. I enjoyed your new format. 💜

[@petermacdonald3061]

Hi I love to hear about the history behind houses, why, when and how. Keep up the great work I am an avid follower of your videos. Best regards, Peter ohn Mac Donald (Penang, Malaysia ).

[@jeffpeelman2627]

Everything you do is interesting and exciting. Whatever format you decide to use will be perfect considering the venue.

[@califdad4]

Huntington, I believe had a mansion on Nob Hill in SF too

[@keithnieto2882]

Loved the color and black and white comparison to the very similar character of "The Gilded Age" series...showcasing the actor in color and the home in b/w very clever!

[@jobskinner833]

Great presentation. I enjoyed the new tone. All shows, however, are great. I look forward to seeing them.

[@ganymededarling]

This was such a beautifully written video.

[@taylorallen2999]

Best yet

[@Alex-tk2ru]

great format man love your videos

[@diandreawilliams1799]

I like the new format.

[@ethanshaw1093]

Fabulous as usual! Thank you for all you do!

[@Keifsanderson]

I appreciated your new format.

[@lisadolan689]

Love this format ☺️

[@kennstransky]

I like this new format! Please keep it up

[@garygloska7396]

What a shame such well-built yet torn down I bet Tiffany's would have loved to have it today

[@gabriellafisher8102]

Awesome story and presentation!!

[@patriciawhite1365]

Love your voice and the venues you visit

[@gwengottlieb8501]

Loved this presentation! I watch all your videos, because I enjoy your content. I think this narration is lovely. Thank you for trying something different!

[@DONLEEGUSS]

I really enjoyed the person stories added in. I kinda wanted more gossip, honestly. You could do a series with all the money details and dirty secrets.

[@michaela1655]

I often take hikes in the Collis P. Huntington State Park in CT. I believe that the son of Collis P. Huntington lived on that land before it became a state park. It is the headwaters of the Aspetuck River, and it has amazing rock features and mature trees. Located some 60 miles from this mansion in New York City.

[@mitchellbarnow1709]

It left me sad about life and its inevitable death, but it’s the truth.

[@suebecker2893]

Story well told!

[@fs357mag]

Nicely written. 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@muliefriend4785]

Such a sad story….

[@muliefriend4785]

She was featured in The Guilded Age series.

[@vickilindberg6336]

No friends. Just trying for the attention of people who wont care for you. Nice presentation. Appreciate your accurate pronunciations.

[@amandab.recondwith8006]

The format was very satisfying, but the story was equally tragic. I know from experience how one can be devastatingly lonely, even surrounded by a crowd. Sylvia's husband ruined her life, as he had ruined thousands of others. I suspect he was an evil man.

[@axnyslie]

When are you going to do a tour of a house again?

[@bigredc222]

Interesting and sad.

[@christopherkraft1327]

Arabella Huntington must have been a very sad lady!! 🤥

[@Asdfhjkl998]

Omg I can’t watch DEMOLITION picture 😢😢😢😢😢😢

[@shawngregg3796]

Her wanting acceptance by the elites of new York is like wanting acceptance by a pit of vipers. Having reached a point where you can live like that and having a husband you seemingly like. Who could ask for more? It is not what others think about you that matters, it's what you think 💬🤔 of yourself.

[@nymeria7239]

$$ over artistry and beauty in the end. So sad.😢

[@paulbrunelle1444]

Any indication what Arabella's son Archer did with the contents of the home before it was demolished?

[@davidwall951]

Are these the same Huntington’s from San Marino CA?

[@tamieckert4548]

She could’ve made different new friends and connections for work and different projects, and could’ve become a confident powerful position in society anyway. Sometimes it’s good to move on to new ventures, and success would’ve been no problem. One should build their own character regardless of old aquatints.

[@jonathankenner576]

Arabella = the first lady to have breakfast at Tiffany's...?

[@randyboglisch137]

I like the new format...such a beautiful mansion. And what a waste in its destruction..eg look what replaced it. Fickle society. Thanks for sharing

[@juancarlosnegron2358]

It's ridiculous to think that someone would knock down a beautiful piece of architecture only to erect a featureless square concrete building in its place.

[@jarodmoses1126]

And the best part is the mansion was good enough for Tiffany’s! So she won in the long run, since Tiffany’s is an American/New York icon right where her mansion had sat! Ha!

[@LoboMendez1]

Arabella seems so lonely, to have stayed after his death...i wonder if she regretted not leaving to some other place where society didnt see her as a pariah.

[@murielrehrer7340]

I love your content so I prefer the voice I am used to

[@lumarinhocas]

❤❤❤

[@teddygunter1130]

She married her nephew after she married the man she had the affair with. It was her dead husbands nephew who left his wife for her. Saw this in another video. WOW! Learned from your video and the other. TY!

[@annresnik6059]

So sad that society of that time was full of hypocrisy, and now the wonderful building is gone and therefore we don't remember the sad life of Arabella Huntington.

[@sergiohqz]

Muito bom

[@viviannedonnelly233]

It makes me very sad to think about all the magnificent work of the artisans who created these mansions only to have them demolished to be replaced by an ugly highrise building or a parking lot in some cases.

[@chastidymann4370]

Hi. 👋

[@edcomedian357]

The lesson learned here is not loneliness It's karma gets all who renege on a promise!

[@robertguerrero8009]

They took nothing with them upon their deaths, only a report card of one's life lived on earth..

[@luisaoc7378]

HOWCOULDTHEYTEARTHESEDOWNTOBUILDSHOEBOXESSSSSSSS AAAAARGH

[@PachinkoMedia]

I like the format, but since you're inviting comments - I like all your videos very much but your breath-y first grade story time VO has been something that I find myself still struggling with.

[@owenwilson8822]

Personally, I only ever disliked when you said 'THIS house' at the start. But that's just me being insane! I like that you are thinking about the format and how to improve. I think pictures/drawings, who owned it and what happened after is probably what everyone is here for.

[@beachandbluesky1]

Did you say Arabella was a simpleton? Goodness gracious. 😂

[@ceilconstante640]

As much as I love the architecture and fashion, I'd hate to live in a time when everyone had their place. People gossiped a lot: "Can you imagine she came from a boarding house and had an affair and wants to be part of our click"?

[@Emily_Paris]

She was willing to have an affair with a married man who’s wife was dying of cancer? All that just for social acceptance? Yes, the mansion was huge and full of wealth which means nothing in the end. For once, I’m glad it got demolished. As always..Thank you Ken for telling this story.

[@paco7992]

Couldn't lessons be taught and learned by leaving them both in place? As an example of the folly, so to speak. Would have made an excellent museum complex.

[@Emily_Paris]

@@paco7992 yeah, you’re right about that. So many gilded age mansions gone. I really do appreciate the beauty of the craftsmanship, the detail and everything else when it comes to these historic buildings.

[@asylumlover]

ALL I CAN SAY ABOUT THE WHOLE SORDID STATE OF AFFAIRS IS: WHAT FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@monl3807]

Wasent it because they had a son in wedlock? And pretended he adopted the boy?? That's what I saw on all videos lots of them on this subject. 4:33

[@neoream3606]

Seems like every Century has their own version of cancel culture.

[@mrscolonyrabble]

I usually find your work to be reasonably well researched, but I am sorry to say you completely missed the mark on this one. Collis wanted acceptance. Arabella (known as "Belle") didn't care. Seriously, she preferred her privacy. After the death of Collis, Belle had a fascinating life that had little to do with her New York home. She was far from an ignorant social-climber. Belle taught herself art history, had exquisite taste in clothing and jewelry, learned flawless French, and was wealthy on her own from real estate investments from money Collis had given her before their marriage. Most importantly, letters, diaries, etc. reflect a universal love and admiration for her by all around her, she was well regarding as having a kind and generous heart, often hidden by a desperate desire for privacy. Parties were not her thing, she preferred small family gatherings. Belle bought houses all over Europe, the eastern seaboard, and California, so was rarely in residence at the NY home. She eventually remarried her husband's nephew Henry Edwards Huntington (closer to her age than Collis had been) together they built a stunning home estate in San Marino CA that is now an art museum, archival library collection, and botanical gardens. Even in CA, where she could easily have been the Queen of Society, she preferred privacy. She truly didn't share Collis' need for status. But if you want to do a great episode, check out The Huntington in San Marino. Wow. It's Disneyland for art/history/garden geeks like me.

[@camsnow2856]

Enjoyed the format very much. It’s sad she was obsessed with acceptance. I would have taken that $$ and lived in Europe. Lol

[@jamesslick4790]

Screw "Social Acceptance" I'll take the money and live MY LIFE. In Fact, I'd GLOAT OVER it. But I'm not her. Even though she had WAY MORE than I ever will, It still comes up as a sad story, And it was all over the price I just paid for a used Buick. 🤦‍♂️

[@michaelcharley8384]

So social rejection runs deep in New York Society as also the adjoining property, Trump Tower, now too basks in notoriety.

[@richardmeo2503]

Another loss, and disgrace