Reflection PoolDining RoomMorning RoomMr. du Pont’s Dressing RoomMrs. du Pont’s Dressing Room
The Nemours Mansion and Gardens covers 200 acres in Wilmington, Delaware. Industrialist and philanthropist Alfred I. du Pont (1864-1935) of the famous de Pont family had them built after marrying his second wife, Alicia. They were designed in the late-18th-century French style Alicia loved, and named after the French town associated with Alfred’s great-great-great grandfather. After Alicia died in 1920, Alfred married Jessie Dew Ball. The couple eventually moved to Jacksonville, Florida, and built another mansion where Alfred resided until his death.
My father and I toured the grounds in July 2018. We were blown away by the beauty and serenity of the estate.
The Gardens
Maze GardenTemple of LoveThe expansive gardens at Nemours Estate includes a large fountain and pool, Art Nouveau-style statues from mythology, the Reflecting Pool, a Maze Garden, and many other wonderful features. They are inspired by the Gardens of Versailles.
The Mansion
Part of the entrance hallGold RoomBlue RoomTable topConservatoryButler’s PantryExercise RoomBowling Alley in the Exercise RoomMrs. du Pont’s BathroomNorth Front BedroomMr. du Pont’s Dressing RoomMrs. du Pont’s Sitting RoomDining Room
Disclaimer: All photos by the author. Captions are given in known instances and are correct to the best of my knowledge.
This would be the last trip my father and I took together. He passed away in 2021. I will always be grateful we had time together. Our trip included parts of Maryland, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.