Main Foyer

The grandfather clock at the top of the stairs is over 200 years old, and is of English origin. When wound it still chimes every hour on the hour. Mr. William Barnish, whose name is on the medallion over the dial, was a clockmaker in Rochdale [near the city of Manchester], England. He was born in 1734 and died in 1776, which therefore dates this magnificent timepiece somewhere between 1755 and his death.

Fixed prominently above the inlaid mahogany console desserte [pronounced “dez-zer-ta”] is a baroque Italian mirror. The design is “garland of peace,” and features a bird at the top.

The chest next to the front door is walnut, and is of Louis the XVI design.

The deacon’s bench and matching chairs are of Chippendale design.

The rug is Persian, completed around 1920, and of the Meshed [“mah-shed”] design.

As you tour the house, be sure to note the large door locks. Custom-made for Allandale by locksmith L.B. Stacy, each is composed of solid brass and requires a separate key to turn.