Exploring Dutch Heritage Through Research 

Exploring Dutch Heritage Through Research 

Biographies

Uncover the life stories of historical figures, innovators, and influential individuals from around the globe. Explore their achievements, struggles, and the legacy they’ve left behind.
Total 364 Contents

Cornelius Vanderbilt was a nineteenth-century American shipping magnate and railroad tycoon who built the New York Central Railroad empire and became the richest man in the United States upon his death.

Gloria Vanderbilt was an American artist, author, and fashion designer who built a major lifestyle brand with her designer jeans and products, while remaining a prominent member of the famous Vanderbilt family.

Harold Stirling Vanderbilt was an American businessman and yachtsman who twice won the America’s Cup and created the Vanderbilt Trophy in contract bridge, while also serving as a director of the New York Central Railroad.

William Henry Vanderbilt was an American railroad magnate who expanded the New York Central system and doubled the Vanderbilt fortune after inheriting his father Cornelius Vanderbilt’s transportation empire in the late nineteenth century.

Reginald Claypoole Vanderbilt was an American heir of the Vanderbilt railroad fortune, known for his involvement in equestrian pursuits and as the father of Gloria Vanderbilt and grandfather of journalist Anderson Cooper.

Cornelius Vanderbilt IV was an American newspaperman and great-great-grandson of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt. Known for launching several short-lived newspapers and for his seven marriages, he also served in military intelligence and produced an early anti-Nazi documentary.

Cornelius Vanderbilt III was an American engineer, inventor, and National Guard officer. A grandson of railroad magnate William H. Vanderbilt, he earned numerous patents, helped advance New York’s subway system, and served as a brigadier general during World War I.

Cornelius Vanderbilt II was an American railroad executive and heir to the Vanderbilt fortune. As president of the New York Central Railroad, he managed the family empire and supported major philanthropic institutions before his death in 1899.

William Kissam Vanderbilt was an American heir to the Vanderbilt railroad fortune who briefly oversaw the New York Central Railroad and became known for his involvement in horse racing, yachting, and international society life.

Mike Vanderjagt is a Canadian-born NFL placekicker who played primarily for the Indianapolis Colts and became the most accurate field goal kicker in league history during his career.

WHAT WAS NEW NETHERLAND?


About New Netherland Institute

For over three decades, NNI has helped cast light on America's Dutch roots. In 2010, it partnered with the New York State Office of Cultural Education to establish the New Netherland Research Center, with matching funds from the State of the Netherlands. NNI is registered as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.