From 1801 to 1806, Chancellor Livingston and his family celebrated their Christmases in Paris during his term as Minister to France. Sent there to acquire New Orleans for America, Livingston forever changed the face of the young country by purchasing the 512 million acres of the Louisiana Territory from Napoleon.
It was also in Paris that Robert Livingston and Robert Fulton made their historic partnership, eventually resulting in the first practical steamboat. In 1807, both men returned to the United States, where Livingston and Fulton to complete the steamboat on the Hudson River. In later years, the Livingston’s love for French culture continued to enrich their lives and home in the form of elegant furnishings and decorative arts that decorated both Clermont and the Chancellor’s mansion, New Clermont.
In acknowledgement of the importance of the Livingstons’ years in France and their long-lasting love of French culture, Clermont’s holiday 2007 decorations will be inspired by the styles and themes of the French Empire. Rich textiles, balloons, steamboats, French furnishings, and more will create a festive holiday atmosphere and a delightful backdrop for three weeks of holiday programming.
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