Otto Hermann Kahn: A Long Island Historical Figure
The Long Island area has seen its share of world-renowned historical figures in the past. One such man who lived in the early 20th century and called Long Island his home was Otto Hermann Kahn. Otto Kahn made his living in the banking industry and was also known for his love of the arts. The following paragraphs will highlight some key points in the life of this Long Island historical figure.
The Life of Otto Hermann Kahn
Otto Hermann Kahn was born in Germany in 1867 and came over to the United States at the age of 26. From that point forward, Kahn established himself as both a businessman and a family man as well, marrying the daughter of an important man in the banking industry and having four children. His professional career soared in the banking industry and Otto Hermann Kahn became likened to others in the business such as J.P. Morgan. Throughout his life, Kahn was a well-known patron of the arts and purchased many beautiful paintings to decorate his homes. Unfortunately, at the age of 67, Otto Hermann Kahn passed away due to a heart attack.
Contributions of Otto Hermann Kahn
Otto Hermann Kahn contributed much to the banking industry and the area of Long Island as well. In 1914, Kahn purchased 443 acres in the area of Cold Spring Harbor and built what is known today as Oheka Castle. This beautiful estate, once the private residence of Otto Hermann Kahn, is now a hotel and resort. When it was the private home of Kahn, it consisted of 127 rooms and was 62,000 square feet. This home is the second largest house built in the United States. Not only was the size impressive in and of itself, the décor and furnishings were magnificent as well. Complete with an exquisite marble staircase, 60-foot high ceilings in certain areas and an unbelievable amount of fireplaces, this home was the toast of the town, if not the entire country. See it online at: www.oheka.com
Oheka was not the only Kahn contribution, far from it. As stated earlier, Kahn was a patron of the arts and purchased the works of various artists. He loved music and the opera as well and was on the board of the Metropolitan Opera Company, which he actually helped to save from the grips of bankruptcy. Known as a philanthropist, Otto Hermann Kahn donated quite a bit of his money to various charities and made it known that he was happy to do so.
Otto Hermann Kahn is a name that will continue throughout Long Island history and individuals from the area are quite familiar with the good that this man contributed during his lifetime.
