Let’s take a closer look at the pocket doors at the May-Stringer. There are four sets of the huge, pine doors. Each door is eight feet tall and three feet wide (six feet for the double doors.) The proportion is perfect for the ten foot ceilings.
The first set of pocket doors is between the foyer and parlor. It is noted that the design of the door is that of the ‘cross and bible.’ The parlor also has another set of doors that leads to the dining room. Then, there is another set from the dining room to the hallway. Across the hallway is the fourth set which goes into the doctor’s office.
The hardware for each door is beautiful. The cast bronze is decorated with flowers and leaves. Pocket doors became popular in the late 1800s and were a space saver over the traditional door’s sweep. Privacy was achieved when the doors were closed, but when opened, the space was enlarged and the flow of passage through each room was easy. Pocket doors added a touch of elegance and grandeur to many homes of the time.
The Museums are open! Noon – 3pm
The May-Stringer: Tours Thursday, Friday & Saturday – 352-799-0129
The 1885 Depot: Tours Wednesday, Friday & Saturday – 352-799-4766
The Countryman One Room Schoolhouse: Tours Saturday – 352-515-3054 or 630-464-2313
