Jun 02 2026

Mystery Friday Foto #22 Solved: Willie K Jr’s Daughter Consuelo Vanderbilt Earl and Her Dog ‘Chips’

Mystery Friday Foto #22 Solved: Willie K Jr’s Daughter Consuelo Vanderbilt Earl and Her Dog ‘Chips’

Did you identify Consuelo and Chips?

Identify;

  • The Woman

Consuelo Vanderbilt Earl (1903-2011)

  • Link her to the Vanderbilt Cup Races

Consuelo is the daughter of Willie K., the founder of the Vanderbilt Cup Races. Note the striking resemblance to her father.

  • Is she still alive?

Consuelo lived to the amazing age of 107. She passed away on Feb. 26, 2011.

  • Why is she with this dog, and what breed is it?

Consuelo Vanderbilt Earl, became a notable breeder of Skye and Silky Terriers. The dog in the photo is 'Chips', one of her prized Silky Terriers.

Congrats to Steve and Art for identifying Consuelo, and Kudos to Art for the extra info and identifying Chips!

Greg O. 

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Consuelo and Chips, a Silky Terrier.

Mrs. Earl, a lifelong owner and breeder of terriers, helped the silky terrier breed gain official recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1959..

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A 29-year old Consuelo and her father Willie K. Vanderbilt Jr. aboard Willie K's yacht, Alva in 1932.

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At the 2013 Doyle Auction of the Estate of Consuelo Vanderbilt Earl, Howard was the winning bidder for Consuelo's copy of the book signed by her father.

William K. Vanderbilt Jr.‘s 1937 Book “Flying Lanes”

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 The inscription in the book reads:
 
Dearest Consuelo:
 
I thought you might like to have this little book
 
affectionately
 
Father

Oct. 8 - 1937



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