2/26/09 - New addition to the estate - 1927 Rolls Royce Phantom I!!
Good afternoon everyone! There is some exciting news on the Winterthur estate today - the museum has received the amazing gift of this car from the Beals estate. This Rolls-Royce adds a new dimension to our visitor’s experience as we interpret this era of Winterthur as an American country estate. It truly represents the luxury vehicles that the guests of Henry Francis and Ruth Wales duPont traveled in when visiting Winterthur in the early 1930’s. Other owners of a Phantom I Rolls-Royce include such names as JP Morgan, Vanderbilt, Goodyear, Rockefeller, and of course, various duPonts!
Want to know why I am letting you know all of this information?
I am trying to find out from all of you how many of you would be interested in having the Rolls-Royce outside of your wedding venue here at Winterthur to enhance your day? Imagine your guests pulling up and seeing the Rolls-Royce in front of the Visitor Center or outside of the Reflecting Pool or Gallery. It is such the perfect addition to the ambiance of your wedding. And think about what the pictures next to it and inside of it could look like!
The car would be moved from its designated location by one of our specially trained drivers and would be positioned next to your ceremony or reception area before and after (weather and light dependant). We are thinking the charge would be approximately $500 for this service. What do you think ? Respond to me and let me know your thoughts and ideas and help me with this fantastic new feature we are so lucky to have!


Wow - this sounds really great! I’m wondering - do you have a photo to post of the Rolls-Royce? Also, so I understand correctly, do the bride and groom get to ride in the car? Can any wedding guest sit in the car for photos? That would be fun - and classy!
Great idea on a photo - let me see if I can get my hands on one to add to the post. Unfortunately no, due to the liability with driving the bride and groom, they will not be able to drive in the car but will be able to sit inside and take pictures. Let me see what I can do on finding some pictures!