The Chateaus of the du Ponts

Discover an American family's story - the du Ponts. The story celebrates two hundred years of history, spans three centuries, includes four estates and gardens, and recalls five generations.

Start with a visit to the Hagley Museum, where the du Pont story begins. Located on 235 acres along the banks of the Brandywine River in Wilmington, Delaware, Hagley is the site of the gunpowder works founded by E. I. du Pont in 1802. This example of early American industry includes restored mills, a workers' community, and the ancestral home and gardens of the du Pont family.

Winterthur Museum & Country Estate, one of a few surviving great American country estates. Henry Francis du Pont (1880-1969), an avid antiques collector and horticulturist, was Winterthur's fifth owner. It was his love of American craftsmanship that led him to assemble one of the world's most complete collections of antiques and Americana.

Winterthur's fields and farmland detail the workings of a great American country estate. The 60-acre naturalistic garden boasts breathtaking beauty.

Nemours Mansion and Gardens, America's Versailles in the Brandywine Valley. Alfred I. duPont (1864-1935) employed the architectural firm of Carrere and Hastings to design the 1909-1910 mansion. The 47,000 square foot house is decorated with rare rugs, antique tapestries, oil paintings, and decorative arts. Guest will enjoy a walk around the sculpture-filled, formal French gardens and a visit to the chauffeur's garage, where antique cars are displayed.

Travel to Mount Cuba, a lovely 630 acre country estate for the study of Piedmont flora, with seasonal events such as the Wildflower Celebration! When you tour the Georgian treasure, gaze down for a panoramic view of the valley.

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