American businessman and philanthropist Cornelius Vanderbilt II (1843–1899) succeeded his father and grandfather as head of the New York Central Railroad. His mansion in Newport, Rhode Island, “The Breakers,” is among the largest and most lavish private residences ever constructed. William K. Vanderbilt (1849–1920), brother of Cornelius, was a railroad executive, horse-racing devotee, and owner of the yacht Defender, which won the 1895 America’s Cup. DS, signed “C. Vanderbilt” and “W. K. Vanderbilt,” one page, 8.5 x 6.75, December 1, 1886. A document appointing William D. Kelly proxy at a stockholders’ meeting of the Clearfield Bituminous Coal Corporation. Horizontal fold, and file hole to blank margin, otherwise fine, clean condition. R&R COA.
