A Historical Tour of The Caldwell House, Part II
The Grand Dining Room
Dining Room

The Grand Dining Room 

 

The large dining room in The Caldwell House was built to accommodate big family gatherings of the Caldwell family.  Meals were prepared by the family cook, Gussie, and her helpers. Gussie wore a uniform and a white chef's hat to prepare the meals. She was considered by some to be the best cook in Abbeville at the time. The original dining room table was massive and built to open all the way from the back windows to the side hallway. This would accommodate the adults, but the children had to sit on a separate table near the entrance to the kitchen, and the oldest female grandchild was responsible for the youngsters.  After the meal, only after being excused by the adults, the young ones would race outside to play.  The men would grab a toothpick, get up from the table, slip the cooks a sum of money, then retire to the front sitting room for cigars.  The women remained at the dining room table, chatting over cups of coffee.  Sunday dinners were a family tradition and not to be rushed.  Members of The Caldwell family have fond memories of those special times.  

 

The most notable feature of the dining room at this time is the light fixture in the center of the pressed tile ceiling, which is made from crushed eggs.  This was not the original light fixture, long gone by now.  

 

The dining room serves as an elegant breakfast setting for current overnight house guests.  During an event, its spaciousness provides adequate room for chaffing dishes even for extensive meals, yet still provides space for guests to dine.

 

The original wainscoting still remains, painted a deep burgundy. The original pressed tile ceiling and wood flooring is part of the room's current decor. 

 


What's Going on in Acadiana....

 

Abbeville Farmer's Markets
Abbeville - Magdalen Square - 8:00 am -  1:00 am  
May 12th, June 16th , June 30th ...
NO ADMISSION FEE 
(click here for more dates) 

 
The Daylily Festival and Garden Show 

Magdalen Square, Downtown Abbeville 

Saturday, June 2nd - 8:30 am - 3:00 pm

Plant booths, educational speakers, food and more.   

NO ADMISSION FEE  

 

 



Watch for The Caldwell House May, 2012 newsletter which will discuss various choices of music for your wedding ceremony and reception.

 

April 2012
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In This Issue
The Grand Dining Room
What's Going on in Acadiana
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Did You Know?
The Caldwell House still has vacancy for the Giant Omelette Celebration, November 3 - 4, 2012.
Rent the entire house for your family! 

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The Caldwell House  

Cajun Breakfast   

Tortilla   

 

     
Combining Cajun and Mexican cultures,
The Caldwell House offers this
unusual twist on breakfast.

To experience more of our delicious breakfast items,
stay at The Caldwell House!
 Click here for recipe