The Vanderbilt family was among the elite of the USA during the Gilded Age, renowned for their luxurious tastes. They were particularly enthusiastic about equestrian sports, with the late Reginald Vanderbilt standing out as an avid horse breeder, likely the most passionate in his family. His dedication was such that he built a 6.15-acre estate, which is now up for auction.

Named Sandy Point Farm, this expansive property is located in the heart of Rhode Island and is set to be auctioned by Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions. From October 17 until Halloween, bidders can place their bids, with the starting price set at $1 million. However, the grand estate has a listed asking price of $3.5 million, according to the New York Post.

What does this have to do with equestrian, you ask? The estate was commissioned by Reginald Vanderbilt, who designed it to reflect the family’s passion for the sport. It features a 15,000-square-foot indoor riding arena, 24 stables, grooms’ quarters, and much more, making it a dream property for equestrian enthusiasts. Now, with 8 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms available, this is an opportunity that no lover of the sport would want to miss.

Even back then, the estate was part of multiple elite equestrian activities and horse breeding. Thanks to this, it also became the new hotspot for the Rhode Island elite to gather. More importantly, it’s a reflection of the Vanderbilt family’s legacy. Especially as many of their existing estates were sold and repurposed, however, Sandy Point was a mansion and a horse lover’s paradise that is now open to potential transformation.

Now, this is where the controversy arises. While the property boasts picturesque views and is just 15 minutes from Newport and a little over half an hour from T.F. Green International Airport, making it an attractive deal, many have voiced their desire to conserve the last remnants of the historic pedigree’s legacy.

Saviors jump in to save Vanderbilt’s equestrian estate’s legacy

The decision to auction and potentially open this historic land to a modern revamp did not sit well with the local equestrians. They launched a non-profit foundation, namely the Sandy Point Heritage Foundation, and are now amassing $1.5 million to save the estate from the havoc of auction. Much like the mansion hosted lavish parties and bustled with equestrian activities before, they aim to make it a community hub while preserving the site.

As per Ingrid Adolphs, who incorporated the foundation, they need the community to rally for this. He recently told What’sUpNewp, “We are very afraid that the way that this is being marketed and the current conditions of the property would lead to someone acquiring it to tear it down.” Sniffing a modern overhaul around the corner, they aim to raise $1.5 million for the down payment.

If they fail, the backup plan would be to team up with the eventual buyer and upgrade the property over the next four years while preserving its historical roots. By making it more accessible through sponsorships and scholarships for courses, residents could engage with and enjoy equestrian activities as a sport. Do you think this is the right approach, or should the auction proceed without any restrictions? Let us know your thoughts below!