Cornelia Stuyvesant Vanderbilt was born on August 31, 1900, in New York City. She was the daughter of George Washington Vanderbilt II and Edith Stuyvesant Dresser. Cornelia grew up in the luxurious Biltmore Estate, which was built by her father in North Carolina. In 1924, she married John Francis Amherst Cecil, and they had three children together. Cornelia was known for her philanthropic efforts, particularly in the areas of education and the arts. She played a significant role in preserving the legacy of her family's estate and contributed to various charitable organizations throughout her life.