At The Met, Part 2

1944

1944 was a big year for Grace Vanderbilt. That was the year she had been forced to leave 640 Fifth Avenue (as it had been sold) and she moved to a much smaller residence far up the avenue, the former William Starr Miller townhouse, now in the heart of the fashionable district. That year, while moving, she had been forced to part with many of the Vanderbilt Family treasures, including her grandfather-in-law's famous art collection, which he had proudly assembled. Nevertheless, she still attended the Opera.

Socialites and Debutantes Arriving In The Lobby Of The Met For The Opening Of The Opera And The Season

Mrs Kavanaugh and Her Daughter, Mrs. Warner, Managed To Arrive For The Opening Night

Vincent Astor (Oldest Grandchild of Caroline) And His Wife, Minnie, Attending The Opening, One Of Vincent's Few Times At The Opera

Consuelo Vanderbilt Balsan And Her Husband Also Showed Up For The Opening, Consuelo Wearing Pearls That Were Given To Her By Her Aunt, Alice Vanderbilt (Grace's Mother-In-Law)

Grace Vanderbilt In Her Box Taking Her Gloves Off, The Aging Social Queen Would Be Giving Her Last Party That Night At 640 Fifth Avenue 

Mr and Mrs Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney And Friends In The Cafe At The Met

1947

The one year anniversary of the demolition of 640 Fifth Avenue. The Met was alive that night, with brilliant performances from several famous stars. New York City's elite all showed up to enjoy the show.

Attorney General Thomas C Clark Helping Singer Frank Sinatra Take Off His Coat

Mr and Mrs Cornelius Vanderbilt Whitney Seated In The Cafe, Waiting For The Show To Start

Actress Gene Tierney Showed Up, Only To Bored Throughout The Entire Performance

Valentia And Others Attending The Opening Of The Metropolitan Opera House

Mrs Evelyn Lehman Talking With Giovanni Martinelli In The Cafe

TO BE CONTINUED