When the Sheridans lived here, this room was the dining room. In addition to using the door to the kitchen, there was also a butler’s access in the wall over the grand piano.
As renovations began on the museum, a “sister” grand piano was discovered in the basement. That piano could not be saved, so in its place is a Mathushek Cottage Grand Piano (c. 1870). Our Estey Parlor Organ, built in Brattleboro, was restored in 2008. On the opposite wall, the Foster Organ was built in Winchester, and is on loan from the Swanzey Historical Society. Also made in Winchester is our Graves Instrument Company clarinet (c. 1830-50).
The Sheridans were fond of music, and Mrs. Sheridan and their son Ralph were noted in local newspapers for their singing voices. I’m sure they would have enjoyed the Edison Phonograph, which came from Boston in the early 1900s.
You’ll find a number of photos of bands and musicians from the area around the room. The two clocks were made by well-known local artists. The Gately Clock (by the kitchen) is made entirely of wood. The banjo clock (by the front entrance) was made by Bert Wood, whose tools are on display in the Industry Room upstairs.
Return to the Sheridan House Tour.
