Gertrude (Vanderbilt) Whitney (1875-1942)

Mrs Gertrude (Vanderbilt) Whitney

Gertrude was a talented sculptor as well a patron of the arts and collector. In 1931, she founded the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City. In 1934, she famously sued for the custody of her niece, Gloria Vanderbilt (1924-2019), in a battle that gripped America. She won, but although life became more stable for her niece, Gertrude was a cold woman and they mainly communicated through their lawyers.

Parents (2)

Cornelius Vanderbilt II

Railroad President, of New York City & "The Breakers" Newport, Rhode Island

1843-1899

Alice (Gwynne) Vanderbilt

Mrs Alice Claypoole (Gwynne) Vanderbilt

1845-1934

Spouse (1)

Harry Payne Whitney

Harry Payne Whitney, of New York

1872-1930

Children (3)

Flora (Whitney) Miller

Mrs Flora Payne (Whitney) Tower, Miller

1897-1986

Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney

"Sonny" Whitney, U.S. Under Secretary of Commerce

1899-1992

Barbara (Whitney) Headley

Mrs Barbara (Whitney) Henry, Peck, Headley

1903-1983

Associated Houses (4)

The Vanderbilt Château

Manhattan, New York City

The Breakers

Newport, Rhode Island

Whitney Mansion

871 Fifth Avenue, Manhattan, New York

The Manse

Old Westbury, New York