The Commodore was not the symbol of philanthropy, despite having so much money! But, his descendants through time contributed money to various causes and institutions.
Vanderbilt University – before he died, Cornelius desired to give Central University in Nashville, TN with an endowment. After he died, his son William Henry carried out the gift and added money – for a total of about 1.2 million. This apparently was the largest endowment given to any Southern Methodist institution.
Vanderbilt Clinic — gifted by the four sons of William Henry to The College of Physicians and Surgeons, now Columbia University.
Sloane Maternity Hospital – presented to the College of Physicians and Surgeons by Emily Vanderbilt Sloan in 1886, daughter of William Henry Vanderbilt.
Whitney-Headley Museum (Lexington, KY) – founded by George Headley and wife Barbara Whitney. Ms. Whitney was the daughter of Harry Payne Whitney & Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney.
Whitney Museum of Modern Art – founded by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney. In 1931, she donated a large collection of more art objects, and purchased some art, for its founding. Gertrude was a great-granddaughter of the Commodore.
