For almost a century, the Bradley Martin Ball of 1897 was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the most expensive private party ever given in the United States. But with so many extravagant balls being hosted every year during the Gilded Age, how did this one end up being the greatest social event of the 19th century? It's time to explore one of the grandest parties ever held in modern history, with a rare look at never-before-seen photos from that infamous evening.

Join New York Adventure Club as we go back in time to relive the historic Bradley Martin Ball — hosted at New York's Waldorf-Astoria hotel in 1897, this Gilded Age ball is widely regarded as one of the most over-the-top private celebrations in American history thanks to its VIP guest list, lavish display of costumes and jewels, and jaw-dropping price tag.

Led by author and Gilded Age historian Richard Jay Hutto, whose wife’s great-grandparents gave the ball, our journey back in time to the greatest party of the 19th century will include:

• An overview of the Bradley Martin family, from their impressive inheritance, to their path into high society, to spectacle of a wedding for their 16-year-old daughter
• The conception behind the infamous ball of 1897, and how it was both incredibly self-serving and altruistic at the same time
• The over-the-top and expensive costumes worn by nearly everyone who attended, and which are still on display in museums and private collections
• The play-by-play of the historic evening, including the food and drink served, what music was played, and how the guests arrived and departed
• The negative public reaction to the spectacle, and why the Bradley Martins were wrongly accused of fleeing the United States after their ball
• Never-before-published family photos that illustrate the elaborate lengths some attendees went in order to be noticed

Afterward, we'll have a Q&A with Rick — any and all questions about the Bradley Martin Ball are welcomed and encouraged!

Can't make it live? Don't worry, you'll have access to the full replay for one week!

See you there, virtually!

*Immediately upon registering, you will receive a separate, automated email containing the link to join this webinar

**For the best possible viewing experience, please ensure you're using the latest version of your internet browser — Google Chrome is the most compatible. Exact technical requirements and a webinar user guide will be shared in the automated confirmation email upon registration.

***A full replay of the experience will be available to all registered guests for up to a week

Testimonials

"The more indepth detail about the various costumes and people involved in the Bradley Martin Ball." -Nikki

"Everything. It was fascinating to learn the details of such an extravagant event." -Leslie

"Excellent presentation, wonderful photos." -Lauren

"I learned the degree to which members of "society" knew each other." -Elisa

"I loved all the photographs, costumes, and history. I enjoyed the well researched biographies." -Elizabeth

"The details about the preparation and background info leading up to the ball." -Nancy

"Full of facts and anecdotes to humanize the attendees." -Katherine

"Beautiful photos and interesting anecdotes." -Cathleen

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Categories: Virtual, Gilded Age