The 16 largest historic homes in the United States

Forget the megamansions being built in the Hamptons and south Florida - America's most opulent homes were built decades ago by titans of industry like Alfred I. du Pont and William Randolph Hearst.

The largest historic homes in America, all built before 1952, are sprawling estates located around the country. Many others have been demolished, and are not included on this list.

Some are now publicly owned, others are still in private hands. Quite a few belong to universities, and one even belongs to a presidential nominee.