A truly authentic kitchen located at the Appomattox Courthouse National Historic Park. This kitchen is interpreted to 1864 but could represent most American kitchens between 1750 and the Civil War.
Kitchens are often the most altered room in houses built before the 20th century. Changes in domestic technology and the reduced use of household servants since the mid-19th century dramatically affected how meals are prepared and who prepares them for middle- and upper-income households.
Typically, only museums restore kitchens to their period appearances, like the one shown here. People living in the 21st century nearly always want the functionality and convenience of modern appliances in their homes. To live contemporary lives in historic houses requires finding a balance between historic character and 21st-century functionality, especially in kitchens and bathrooms.
Finding that balance in a way that preserves the historic character of a house is explored in depth in “Restoring Your Historic House, The Comprehensive Guide for Homeowners.”
Signed and personalized copies of the award-winning and bestselling 720-page hardcover book are available from the author in our online shop at YourHistoricHouse.com/shop/.
Our shop also carries select preservation and restoration titles by other authors. Save on cost and shipping with our multi-book combo packs!
“Restoring Your Historic House” is also available in bookstores nationwide and from online retailers.
© Scott T. Hanson 2026.
#antiquehome #antiquehomes #traditionalarchitecture #historicalhomes #historicalhouse #historic #oldhome #oldhouse #preservation #preserveourhistory #houseandgarden #homerestoration #houserestoration #vintagehome #restoringyourhistorichouse #yourhistorichome #restoration #houserehab #kitchendesign #oldhousekitchen