Welcome to one of the oldest sections of the house, dating back to its original construction in 1857. This Dining Room, steeped in history, offers a glimpse into the refined dining customs of the Victorian era.

Rather than serving multiple dishes family-style (à la francaise), courses were presented sequentially (à la russe), adding a layer of sophistication to the dining experience. Mrs. Barker maintained the rhythm of these dinners with a discreet call button conveniently located within reaching distance under the lip of the table, signaling the staff to usher in each new course seamlessly. The call button is visible by looking in the strategically placed mirror under the table.

The hand-painted oil-on-canvas ceiling, depicting a lush grape arbor, testifies to the exquisite craftsmanship of the era. Designed by architect Frederick Wainwright Perkins, the hand-carved table with its mahogany construction, veneered top, and delicate fruit inlay serves as the centerpiece of the room; its cherub-adorned feet showcasing individual artistry and carving by Joseph Dux.

The tapestry panels adorning the walls, meticulously stretched onto frames, add elegance to the room's ambiance. Mr. Barker's host chair stands as a symbol of familial pride, its tapestry back proudly displaying the Barker family coat-of-arms, accompanied by a monogrammed "B" on the front with John Barker's Latin motto Maneat Nomen Sicut Monumentum: "Let the Name be the Monument."

The fireplace, crafted from pink Italian marble, features a recessed warming shelf, offering both practical and visual appeal. Noteworthy are the foldable window shutters, seamlessly integrated with the paneling, a testament to the ingenuity of Victorian design.