Paris, the city of love, has always been known for its magnificent architecture, delicious food, and rich cultural heritage. However, it is also known for its affluent residents and their luxurious lifestyles. One such resident was the wealthiest girl in Paris, whose story is both fascinating and inspiring.
The Life of the Richest Girl in Paris
Born on September 19th, 1907, to a wealthy businessman father and a socialite mother, Consuelo Vanderbilt was destined to live a life of luxury. Her family’s wealth came from the Vanderbilt railroad fortune that originated from her great-great-grandfather Cornelius Vanderbilt.
Consuelo grew up in a lavish mansion in New York City and was educated at exclusive boarding schools in the United States and Europe. However, her life took an unexpected turn when she was just eighteen years old.
The Marriage
In 1924, Consuelo’s mother arranged for her to marry Charles Spencer-Churchill, the 9th Duke of Marlborough. The marriage was not a happy one as it was purely a business arrangement to save the Churchill family’s estate that was in financial trouble.
Consuelo bore two sons during this marriage but eventually divorced Charles in 1936 due to his infidelity. She then married Jacques Balsan, a French aviator who shared her passion for flying.
The Wealth
Despite her unhappy first marriage, Consuelo remained one of the richest women in the world throughout her life. She inherited $20 million from her father and received an additional $2 million from her divorce settlement with Charles Spencer-Churchill.
Consuelo lived an extravagant lifestyle with homes in New York City, Long Island, Palm Beach, Cap-d’Ail (France), and London. She had access to private jets, yachts and owned horses that participated in prestigious horse racing events. Her love for flying led her to become the first licensed female pilot in France.
The Legacy
Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan passed away on December 1st, 1964, at the age of 57. She left behind a legacy that extended beyond her wealth and luxurious lifestyle.
Consuelo was known for her philanthropic work and supported several charities throughout her life. She was particularly interested in women’s rights and helped establish a scholarship program for women at Columbia University. In honor of her contributions, the university named one of their residence halls after her.
The Conclusion
In conclusion, Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan was much more than just the richest girl in Paris. Her life was full of ups and downs but she remained resilient throughout it all. Her love for flying, philanthropy, and passion for life is what truly makes her story inspiring.
- Key Takeaways:
- Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan was born into wealth and grew up in luxury.
- Her marriage to Charles Spencer-Churchill was purely a business arrangement.
- Despite an unhappy marriage, Consuelo remained one of the richest women in the world.
- She lived an extravagant lifestyle with homes in New York City, Long Island, Palm Beach, Cap-d’Ail (France), and London.
- Consuelo was known for her philanthropic work and supported several charities throughout her life.
If you’re ever in Paris, take a moment to remember this remarkable woman who lived life on her own terms!