Murder at Rough Point: A Gilded Newport Mystery

On July 7, 1934, Elsie Vanderbilt was found dead in her bedroom at Rough Point. She had been brutally stabbed multiple times. The murder sent shockwaves through the community and the nation. Who would kill one of Newport's most beloved socialites?

The Investigation

Police launched a massive investigation, but there were few clues. The weapon was never found, and there were no signs of forced entry. Suspicion initially fell on Alfred Vanderbilt, but he was quickly ruled out. Other suspects emerged, including a rejected suitor of Elsie's and a disgruntled employee, but all were cleared.

As the investigation dragged on, rumors began to circulate about a possible cover-up. Some believed that the Vanderbilts, who had a reputation for secrecy, were protecting someone involved in the murder.

Unanswered Questions

The murder at Rough Point remains one of America's most infamous unsolved mysteries. Despite a decades-long investigation, the killer was never found. There are still unanswered questions about what happened that fateful night, and the mystery continues to fascinate historians and true crime enthusiasts alike.

The Legacy of Rough Point

Today, Rough Point is a National Historic Landmark and museum. It is open to the public for tours, and visitors can learn about the history of the estate and the unsolved murder that took place there.

The murder at Rough Point was a tragic event that shattered the gilded facade of the Newport social scene. It remains a reminder of the dark secrets that can lurk beneath the surface of even the most glamorous environments.