Welcome to Mrs. Barker’s bedroom, also known as the master bedroom, where a glimpse into the Victorian era awaits. It was customary for spouses to maintain separate sleeping quarters during this time period, a trend reflected in the grandeur of this room. The focal point is Mrs. Barker’s Empire four-poster bed, draped in original lace coverings. Crafted from rich mahogany and adorned with pineapple finials atop each post, the bed is emblematic of its mid-19th century origins.
Mrs. Barker’s personal possessions placed throughout the room reflect her taste and individuality. Monogrammed with her initials, KFB (Katherine Fitzgerald Barker), her jewelry, fans, hair combs, and traveling cases evoke the spirit of a bygone era. In the Victorian period, monogramming one’s belongings was a common practice that signified both elegance and distinction. Women often adorned their possessions with intricately embroidered or engraved monograms. Whether it was a simple initial or an elaborate intertwining of letters, monogramming allowed women to assert their individuality while adhering to the strict standards of etiquette.
Illuminating the space with gentle radiance are Federal-style sconces, subtly complementing their counterparts in the adjoining master bathroom. Following her marriage, Catherine Barker Hickox took residence in this room, transforming it into her own space. This transition coincided with her renovation of her childhood bedroom into the Monuments of Paris Room, marking a new chapter in her life within the familiar walls of her family home. Above the fireplace, the portrait by Robert Reid (1862-1929) serves as a gentle nod to her connection to this room, capturing the essence of her presence and legacy within its confines.
