Splendid Isolation: The Jekyll Island Millionaires' Club 1888-1942

by Pamela Bauer Mueller and Pamela Bauer Mueller Jekyll Island

Book Overview

AN HISTORICAL NOVEL

Untamed, and virtually unchanged since its discovery in 1733 by General James Oglethorpe, Jekyll Island's history unfolds with the excitement and suspense of a fairy tale. Because so many of the world's greatest minds and bank accounts gathered together in virtual isolation for three months each year, history was made on Jekyll Island. A group of tycoons with surnames such as Rockefeller, Morgan, Vanderbilt, Pulitzer,...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0980916305
• ISBN13: 9780980916300
• Release Date: January 2010
• Publisher: Pinata Publishing
• Length: 260 Pages
• Weight: 0.87 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.8" x 6.7" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Oh, to be rich!

Reviewed by Enid Grabiner for RebeccasReads (03/10) A small private island off the coast of Georgia, developed by millionaires for the relaxation of millionaires, Jekyll Island stood as an unequalled retreat for the elite to escape from the pressures of business. Well-known tycoons such as the Astors, Rockefellers, Morgans, Pulitzers and Goodyears were among the many members of this exclusive Millionaires' Club. Each bought shares in the property allowing them and their families to reside in the apartments built for their use or to build separate "cottages." They came during the winter season to rest, fish, hunt and play. It was truly the first "pleasure island!" This sanctuary became a union of the rich administrated over by a board of directors comprised of members. They were to oversee enforcement of the club rules and maintenance of the property. They hired a club superintendent to manage its day to day operation. The clubhouse became the focal point of the social and recreational activities and provided meals for the guests. This is a non-fictional novel based on old articles and letters researched by the author. She has sectioned her book to read as memoirs through the eyes of four employees: the club superintendent, the club ship captain, a governess of the Macy family, and an employee of the Maurice family. This is not an expose of poor treatment of servants by their employers, but rather a vehicle to present a glimpse into the lives of these famous titans. We are treated to both their personal joys and tribulations in a way that humanizes them. We also become privy to the history that was made on the island such as the first transcontinental telephone call, the planning of the Federal Reserve Act, and President McKinley's visit to plan his 2nd election campaign. The contributions of these tycoons to industry and government were daunting. I had not been aware of the existence of this island and found its history quite enlightening, but it was not the contribution to world finance and politics that was most fascinating to me. It was the relationship between these employers and their staff. There appeared to be open communication and interest in each others' lives as well as a mutual respect, quite a surprising revelation.

splendible read

An excellent time trip back to an important time and place in our nations history. Some of the most important decisions that we still feel today were made back then. As a visitor to the island, Pamela has captured perfectly the feel of the land and marshes. On a tour, I saw the old club and the books descriptions and archive photos brought me back there. A beautiful place and a beautiful book! I also recommend another of of Ms. Bauer-Mueller's books set in the Georgia area- "An Angry Drum Echoed".

A Splendid Read Indeed

Splendid Isolation is not only historical, but very entertaining. Pamela Bauer Mueller has accomplished the difficult feat of bringing characters from the past to life. This is a good read for anyone interested in all that was going on at the turn of the century when the Jekyll Island Club was built to its seeming end in the World War II era. The book evokes many mental images of what life was like on Jekyll Island and would make any reader want to plan a visit to this magical place!

A step back into a magical time

This book is full of interesting characters with a variety of backgrounds that share their perspective on how the Jekyll Island Club came to be established. It's fascinating to learn how many influential people were involved and the contributions that each made to this unique little piece of heaven.

Enjoyable History

Splendid Isolation is a thoroughly enjoyable book. Mrs. Mueller makes history come alive as she puts her own personal touch on Jekyll Island Millionaire Club facts with a great blend of fiction through the voice of four employees of prominent Club members. Who knew such an important detail of our country's history was created on a small island off the coast of Georgia? If you love history, interesting facts on important historical figures or just a good read this book is for you.