| This section of the house
dates from the early 1700's and may have served as a linen weaving
shop.
By the early 1800's this room played
an important role in the life of the family as a summer living
hall. By throwing open the big barn-like doors, they could enjoy
a breeze and lovely vistas of the garden. In colder months they
closed the doors and the space became a winter shelter for tender
plants.
With the introduction of the sliding
panel glass doors in 1844 the room became known as the conservatory,
offering year-round delight to family and plants alike.
Photographs from the 1870's to the
early 1900's illustrate the seasonal changes in the conservatory.
During the winter, patterned wool carpets covered the floor, and
tall, leafy potted plants created a near jungle of green. During
the summer, the plants were moved outside, straw matting replaced
the carpets, and bamboo chairs, card tables, and garden seats
created a relaxed setting for family life.
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