Peter Sweetser views Whitney Warren's Grand Central Terminal, as part of the NYYC's Marine Art & History Month. Warren's first major commission was the NYYC's 44^th Street Club House that opened in 1901. His patron for the latter commission was NYYC Commodore J. Pierpont Morgan. Dan Nerney photos.

 The steps of Grand Central Terminal, off Vanderbilt Ave. The avenue is named for Cornelius  “Commodore” Vanderbilt, the great grandfather of Harold S. "Mike" Vanderbilt, see next caption. An investor in railroads, Cornelius  Vanderbilt  built the first Grand Central Station in 1871.  He was also a member of the NYYC, beginning in 1846.    

 Back at the NYYC's Club House on 44^th Street is the Palm Cafe that in honor of Marine Art & History Month features the Vanderbilt Family. The painting shows NYYC Commodore Harold S. "Mike" Vanderbilt, who skippered Enterprise, Rainbow and Ranger, the J-Class yachts that successfully defended the America's Cup in the 1930s. Another connection: Mike Vanderbilt was director of the New York Central Railroad.

 Some Vanderbilt memorabilia in the Palm Cafe, including the transom of Ranger, defender of the 1937 America's Cup and considered the best of the breed.

  L-R Bernie Gustin, Peter Sweetser, Belinda Shepard, Commo. Chip Loomis and John Reid.

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The 44^th Street Club House of the NYYC opened in 1901. This was Architect Whitney Warren's first commission. Photo: Carlo Borlenghi/ROLEX.