Hyde Park was established in 1821 as a simple and small town on the Hudson River. Its claim to fame, however, and what attracts people still to this day, are the grand estates, lush landscapes, and lavish lifestyles of some of those who lived there. Wealthy families like the Vanderbilts, Rogerses, Roosevelts, Dinsmores, and Millses built homes to match their place in society. These estates popped up along the river during the Gilded Age. Hyde Park was a perfect location because of its easy access to New York City, where culture and society could be found, while providing country living along the Hudson for the many outdoor pleasures the wealthy enjoyed. One part of this work shows the wealthy river families, whose houses were built by prominent architects and filled with treasures from abroad. Other images show the families who worked as coachmen, gardeners, and parlor maids and made the lifestyles of the rich possible.