When originally built in 1771-73 this area was part of a three-room house that had a massive central chimney. William Strickland removed this chimney, creating two large, cross-ventilated rooms of which this served as a dinning room. The renovation included the installation of the glass-doored book shelves which display a portion of the extensive library the family collected.

Strickland's most striking innovation was the coal burning fireplace with the Greek Revival style statuary niche above. (A bust of Socrates is in the niche.)

By the 1850s or 60s the dining room table was moved out and comfortable chairs, sofas and tables were moved in. Often called the library, the room became the favored spot for reading, visiting and playing.

The wide range of the family's interests is evident. There are books on natural history, horticulture and education. Even more fascinating are Reuben's "Solar Microscope," the wood duck he stuffed in 1826 and other objects from his cabinet of curiosities. Mix in a lively combination of children's toys, dolls and games, it becomes clear that this room was the focus of daily life in the house.