A few short weeks after Halloween, volunteers started the annual task of decorating for the holidays. There are absolutely no pictures, because we all looked a little rough and the ladies would skin me alive. (Of course they're always lovely and gracious...the epitome of Southern Belles...but, I'm not willing to risk it) The first floor of the mansion is dedicated to Mollie Woodruff...she was married to Egbert Wooldridge on December 21, 1871...the wedding took place in the house, as did the reception. Holiday trim is more minimal than years past, but still festive. The staircase is laced with garland with roses (Mollie's favorite flower) and burgundy ribbon. The dining room is set for a midnight supper and the ballroom houses the Christmas tree (while petite, the size is more accurate of Victorian Christmas tradition, the decorations well than make up for the lack of tree).
The second floor is, again, dedicated to the Woodruff's era. A simpler time when candles lit trees and families crowded together in the family parlor. There are two trees, though lit with the electric light, depict a more accurate tree of the time. The third floor is minimal, yet, showcases more trim in lieu of trees. Dedicated to the Fontaine family and the era of industry and growth. It was during this time that the Fontaine family lived in the mansion. Running water, electricity, and an air of significant change and growth were established during this time. Thus, the Fontaine's pushed the mansion into an new age of modern conveniences.
Victorian Yuletide exhibit will be on display until January 8, 2012. Sparkling Lights: A Winter Evening Tour will be given Friday, December 16th...the open tour will begin at 5PM and run until 8PM. It will be a leisurely, self guided tour for the whole family.
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