Dina Merrill’s legacy endures through her exquisite East Hampton estate, a testament to her rich heritage as an accomplished actress, philanthropist, and heiress to two of America’s most prominent fortunes. Although Dina passed away in 2017, her East Hampton home remains an emblem of elegance and history, having recently passed to her daughter while embodying the blend of luxury and cultural influence that defined her life. The estate reflects the enduring charm and refined lifestyle that Dina Merrill cherished, continuing to inspire admiration in today’s world.
| Field | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Nedenia Marjorie Hutton |
| Date of Birth | December 29, 1923 |
| Place of Birth | New York City, New York, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Education | Miss Porter’s School; George Washington University (one term); American Academy of Dramatic Arts |
| Career | Actress, socialite, businesswoman, philanthropist |
| Notable Works | Operation Petticoat (1959), Butterfield 8 (1960), The Sundowners (1960), The Courtship of Eddie’s Father (1963) |
| Marriages | Stanley M. Rumbough Jr. (m. 1946; div. 1966); Cliff Robertson (m. 1966; div. 1986); Ted Hartley (m. 1989) |
| Children | Nedenia Colgate Rumbough, David Post Rumbough, Stanley Rumbough III, Heather Robertson |
| Estimated Net Worth | $5 billion (at time of death, some sources also mention $500 million or $5.5 billion) |
| Current Residence | Deceased (died May 22, 2017); last known properties included luxury homes in New York, Florida, East Hampton, NY (her East Hampton house sold in 2018) |
Who is Dina Merrill?
Dina Merrill was an American actress, socialite, businesswoman, and philanthropist, born Nedenia Marjorie Hutton on 29 December 1923. She came from a wealthy background as the daughter of Wall Street financier E.F. Hutton and Post Cereals heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. Merrill was well-known for her elegant and refined screen presence, often portraying upper-class socialite roles in film and television. Her acting career spanned from the late 1950s to the early 2000s, with notable appearances in movies like “Desk Set,” “Operation Petticoat,” “Butterfield 8,” and “Caddyshack II.” Beyond acting, she was involved in business and philanthropy and served as vice chairman of the entertainment company Pavilion, which acquired the historic film studio RKO Pictures. Merrill passed away on 22 May 2017, at the age of 93, at her luxury home in East Hampton, New York.
Where Does Dina Merrill Currently Live?
Dina Merrill currently does not live anywhere, as she passed away on 22 May 2017. At the time of her death, she was residing in her modern home in East Hampton, New York. She died there at age 93, surrounded by loved ones, and had suffered from Lewy Body dementia in her later years.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| House Specification | Part of Mar-a-Lago estate — a large Mediterranean-style villa with 58 bedrooms, 33 bathrooms overall |
| Childhood Suite | “Baby House” suite at Mar-a-Lago, designed with a fairy-tale theme for Dina Merrill as a child |
| Architectural Design | Spanish Revival / Mediterranean style with European influences; intricate design by Joseph Urban; historic imported materials like Doria limestone and 15th-century Spanish tiles |
| Notable Features | 29-foot-long marble-top dining table; multiple bedroom suites each with distinct historical/European decor |
| Estate History | Built in 1927 by Marjorie Merriweather Post, heiress to Post Cereals; originally a winter residence for the family; significant historic and architectural landmark in Palm Beach |
| Estimated Worth | Mar-a-Lago’s original construction cost was $7 million (equivalent to $127 million in 2024) |
| Address | Mar-a-Lago is located in Palm Beach, Florida |
Dina Merrill House Interior and Exterior
Dina Merrill’s house interior can be partially referenced by her connection to the Hillwood Estate, where a portrait of a young Dina Merrill (Nedenia Hutton) hangs in the English bedroom. This bedroom features a massive Chippendale bed and historic décor, indicating a taste for classic and elegant furnishings. For her own residence, in East Hampton, she owned a celebrity estate known for its elegance and private beach access, which sold for around $8.2 million. The house is described as a lovely shingle-style property with several bedrooms and bathrooms, typical of East Hampton luxury homes with a refined, classic exterior style.
Specifically for Dina Merrill’s East Hampton house, the estate includes shingle-style architecture, private beach access, and a setting befitting a celebrity with tasteful, classic design. There is no highly detailed public record of the specific interior décor of Dina Merrill’s private home beyond these general descriptions. Still, it aligns with the refined and elegant style she was known for.
The Hillwood Estate, related to her mother, Marjorie Merriweather Post, is a 36-room Georgian mansion featuring art collections and classic furnishings, providing some contextual family design aesthetic but not the detailed interiors of Dina Merrill’s own home.
Dina Merrill House History, Worth, and Address
Dina Merrill’s house was an estate located on West Dune Lane in East Hampton, New York. The stunning home was part of a 1-acre lot and was sold posthumously for $8.2 million to her daughter, Nedenia Rumbough, and Donald Handelman about a year after Merrill died in 2017 at age 93. The property stayed in the family, as other West Dune Lane properties were also purchased by her son and associates. Dina Merrill was the daughter of the wealthy heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post and financier Edward Francis Hutton, which ties the house to a lineage with notable wealth and social prominence. Merrill herself was an actress and philanthropist known for her Broadway and Hollywood career. The East Hampton estate reflects her family’s affluent legacy and was reportedly a longtime local residence before being sold within the family.
Dina Merrill’s House FAQ
Where was Dina Merrill’s house located?
Dina Merrill’s house was located in East Hampton Village, a prestigious area in the Hamptons known for its stunning beaches, exclusivity, and luxurious lifestyle. The property was situated on a 1-acre lot, offering privacy and tranquility in one of the most sought-after locations in the United States .
What is the history of Dina Merrill’s East Hampton house?
Dina Merrill and her husband built the house in 1957, and it became a cherished family home for over 60 years. The house was designed as a one-story California contemporary, which was a departure from the traditional architectural styles typically seen in the Hamptons. Despite its modern design, the home became a beloved retreat for Merrill and her family .
What are the unique features of Dina Merrill’s house?
While specific interior details of the house are not widely publicized, here are some notable features:
- California Contemporary Design: The house was a one-story structure with a modern aesthetic, which stood out in the Hamptons, where traditional shingle-style homes are more common .
- Prime Location: The property was located in East Hampton Village, offering proximity to the exclusive Maidstone Club, a favorite spot for Merrill and her family .
- Family Legacy: The home was not just a residence but a place filled with memories, as Merrill spent decades there with her family.
Who bought Dina Merrill’s house?
After Dina Merrill passed away in 2017, her daughter, Nedenia Rumbough, purchased the East Hampton house in 2018 for $8.2 million. This sale ensured that the property remained within the family, preserving its sentimental value .
How much did Dina Merrill’s house sell for?
The house sold for $8.2 million in 2018. The sale was notable because it kept the property within the family, with Merrill’s daughter, Nedenia Rumbough, and her husband, Donald Handelman, becoming the new owners .
What is the significance of the house to Dina Merrill’s family?
The East Hampton house was more than just a luxurious property—it was a family home filled with memories. Dina Merrill and her family were drawn to East Hampton for its lifestyle and exclusivity, particularly the Maidstone Club, which played a significant role in their lives. The house became a symbol of the family’s connection to the area and their shared history .
Did Dina Merrill own any other notable properties?
Yes, Dina Merrill grew up surrounded by luxury and owned or lived in several notable properties, including:
- Mar-a-Lago: Dina Merrill’s mother, Marjorie Merriweather Post, built the iconic Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. Dina spent part of her childhood there before the property was later sold to Donald Trump .
- Gold Coast Estate: As a child, Merrill also spent summers at a lavish 177-acre estate on Long Island’s Gold Coast, reflecting her family’s immense wealth .
What is the architectural style of Dina Merrill’s East Hampton house?
The house was designed in a California contemporary style, which was unusual for the Hamptons at the time. This one-story design emphasized clean lines, open spaces, and a modern aesthetic, contrasting with the more traditional shingle-style homes typically found in the area .
Why is Dina Merrill’s house significant?
Dina Merrill’s house is significant for several reasons:
- Historical Value: The home was built by one of Hollywood’s most iconic actresses and heiresses, making it a piece of cultural and architectural history.
- Family Legacy: The house remained in the family for over six decades and was eventually purchased by Merrill’s daughter, preserving its sentimental importance.
- Architectural Uniqueness: Its California contemporary design stood out in the Hamptons, showcasing Merrill’s taste for modernity and individuality .
What is Dina Merrill’s connection to East Hampton?
Dina Merrill and her family were drawn to East Hampton for its exclusive lifestyle and amenities. The Maidstone Club, a private country club in the area, was a favorite spot for Merrill and her family. The house became a retreat where they could enjoy the tranquility and cultural richness of the Hamptons.
Dina Merrill House Photo
