Palaces of Power: The History of Newport’s Gilded Age Mansions

Join us for an exploration of Newport’s famed Gilded Age mansions and the elite families who called them home! Trudy Coxe, CEO of The Preservation Society of Newport County, will guide you through an era of ambition, excess, and transformation in this presentation on the far-reaching impact of America’s belle époque. 

From the rise of industrial fortunes that shaped our cities and culture to Newport, Rhode Island’s role as a glittering summer stage for families like the Vanderbilts, Astors and Berwinds, immortalized in landmarks such as The Breakers and The Elms, this talk connects history, architecture, and power. 

The evening will conclude with a behind-the-scenes look at HBO’s The Gilded Age, revealing how today’s storytelling brings this dramatic chapter of American history vividly to life for modern audiences.

About the Presenter

Trudy Coxe has served as CEO and Executive Director of The Preservation Society of Newport County since 1998, leading the nonprofit that preserves and operates 11 historic properties, including seven National Historic Landmarks such as The Breakers, Marble House, The Elms, and Rosecliff. 

Under her leadership, the organization has grown to more than 400 employees, a $20 million annual operating budget, and over 900,000 annual visitors, with significant increases in fundraising, membership, and retail operations. The Preservation Society earned accreditation from the American Association of Museums and received multiple Save America’s Treasures designations during her tenure. 

Prior to this role, Coxe served as Massachusetts Secretary of Environmental Affairs, Executive Director of Save The Bay, and held leadership positions with NOAA. She has received numerous awards for career achievement and environmental advocacy, holds honorary doctorates, and remains deeply engaged in civic and environmental organizations through extensive board and advisory service.