The Empire room is located on the 2nd floor, and hosts an antique Half-Tester bed that will make you feel like a King when you sink into the Queen-sized custom Memory Foam Mattress. Embracing its name, it is by far the most spacious room (though the Queen Victoria is larger in size). The furniture in this room carries with it a sense of regal power, elegance, and beauty. From the beautiful drapery to the coolness of the green wall color, you will wake feeling refreshed and ready to conquer whatever the day may bring. For some local history, take a peek at the photos of Samuel Riddle (Riddle Hospital) and his famous horse, Man O’ War, known throughout racing history as one of the greatest racehorses to ever live. This room also features a large private en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, hair dryer, assorted toiletries, and linens. The room also includes individually controlled heat and air, as well as TV.

History

The American Empire room is decorated in the French-inspired Neoclassical style that first emerged under Napoleon’s rule during the early part of the 19th century. Designers of this style are most notably the New York cabinet maker, Duncan Phyfe, and Paris trained Charles-Honore Lannuier. Distinctive embellishments such as gilt brass mounts and decorated inlays including stars, circles, egg and dart, or Greek Key, are just a few of the design elements that make this room unique. The more elaborate furniture made between 1815-1825, such as massive chests of drawers with glass pulls and scroll pillars also incorporated animal paw feet, acanthus leaf ornament, gilding, and other elements taken from Roman and Greek designs. This style had a brief revival around 1890, and along with furnishings of this room, you will see examples of the Greek Key design around the house—particularly in the front door glass and around the ocular cobalt-blue glass windows on both of the staircases.

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