Date of Birth: July 22, 1908
Zodiac Sign: Cancer
Date of Death: December 27, 1974
Biography
Amy Vanderbilt was an influential American author and authority on etiquette. Born in Staten Island, New York, she is best known for her comprehensive guide on manners and social etiquette, “Amy Vanderbilt’s Complete Book of Etiquette,” first published in 1952. This book became a cornerstone in the field and remains a reference for etiquette to this day. Vanderbilt’s work extended beyond books; she hosted radio shows and wrote a syndicated newspaper column, offering advice on social behavior to the American public. Her contributions to the field of etiquette have left a lasting legacy.
5 Interesting Facts about Amy Vanderbilt
1. Amy Vanderbilt’s “Complete Book of Etiquette” has been revised multiple times since its first publication in 1952, adapting to changing social norms.
2. She was a direct descendant of Cornelius Vanderbilt, the famous American business magnate and philanthropist.
3. Vanderbilt was a regular guest on television and radio shows, where she offered advice on etiquette and decorum.
4. She worked as a researcher for the advertising agency Young & Rubicam before she became a household name in etiquette.
5. In addition to her work on etiquette, Vanderbilt wrote several cookbooks and was known for her interest in culinary arts.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Amy Vanderbilt
1. “Good manners have much to do with the emotions. To make them ring true, one must feel them, not merely exhibit them.”
2. “We must learn which ceremonies may be dispensed with, and which must be observed, in order to avoid giving offense.”
3. “Politeness is a sign of dignity, not subservience.”
4. “The essence of etiquette is to be thoughtful and considerate of others.”
5. “Etiquette is the science of living. It embraces everything. It is ethics. It is honor.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the height of her career, Amy Vanderbilt’s net worth was estimated to be around $5 million.
Children
Amy Vanderbilt had three children: two sons named Paul Vanderbilt and Timothy Vanderbilt, and a daughter named Wendy Vanderbilt.
Relevant Links
2. [Biography of Amy Vanderbilt on Britannica](https://www.britannica.com/biography/Amy-Vanderbilt
3. [Amy Vanderbilt’s profile on Goodreads](https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/322.Amy_Vanderbilt