Lincoln Home

[L Verge]

Eva is exactly right about whatnots and the one in the parlor drawing. The latter appears to be almost identical to the one in the parlor at Surratt House. Such shelves were used to display photographs, souvenirs (sea shells were especially popular), pretty vases, etc. They were very convenient for chimney corners or even between windows. The one at Surratt House (original to the period, but not to the Surratts) is really quite pretty with nice turnings, bead work, and hidden drawers under several shelves.

Historybuff has a virtual tour of Surratt House that includes a shot of the etagere.