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Brooke Astor's Trophies: 'Queen of New York's' Fortune

From Homes to Jewelry, Inside Look at the Estate of One of the Great American Families

In New York City, Brooke Astor, was an icon, the epitome of high society and a respected philanthropist. Inheriting her husband's $120 million fortune, she was called by some the "Queen of New York," and the Grand Dame, defining elegance, style and generosity. She died at 105 in August 2007.

Brooke Astor, Photo Credit: Jeff Hirsch, New York Social Diary
Legendary philanthropist Brooke Astor focused on giving back to New York City-based charities in the place where the Astors built their fortune.
(Credit: Jeff Hirsch/New York Social Diary)

Brooke Astor's only son, Anthony Marshall, 85, was convicted on 14 criminal counts of fraud, conspiracy and grand larceny for looting his mother's fortune and tricking his tricking her into changing her will while she was incompetent and suffering from Alzheimer's. He could spend a minimum of one year and up to 25 in prison. Estate lawyer Francis Morrissey was found guilty on all six counts of conspiracy, scheming to defraud and forgery.

But before the Astor name made headlines for charges of elder abuse and fraud, here's a look at Brooke Astor's estate.

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Astor's Trophies

Cove End: Brooke Astor's estate in northeast Harbor Maine. Featured in architectural digest, the retreat was a place where the New York City socialite would spend the summer and indulge her love of nature. A small town scandal would erupt here when Astor's son Anthony Marshall fell in love with the local minister's wife, Charlene Gilbert. Anthony and Charlene married in 1992.

Holly Hill: Astor's beloved country house in Briarcliff Manor, N.Y. The 64.6 acre Westchester County estate totaled more than 10,000 square feet, including 24 rooms, 13 bedrooms and indoor and outdoor pools (below right); it was also known for its luxurious gardens.

Holly Hill was managed by Astor's friend and butler Chris Ely until Anthony and Charlene Marshall closed down the home in January 2005, presumably to cut down on costs. The suburban retreat was later re-opened and was the place where Astor died at age 105. The estate is currently on sale for $12.9 million.

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