Caroline Schermerhorn Astor

Caroline Schermerhorn Astor was a prominent socialite and matriarch of the Knickerbocker family in 19th century New York City. She was known for her impeccable taste and her ability to dictate the terms of high society. Astor was a key figure in the creation and implementation of The 400, a list of the city's elite. She was also a patron of the arts and a supporter of various charitable causes. Astor was married to William Backhouse Astor Jr. and had four children. She died in 1908 at the age of 71.