Notes from the Museums: Fire Screen

The beautiful May-Stringer House has four fireplaces but only one fire screen. The screen is located in the parlor and is quite a fancy piece of furniture. There are two panels that slide out to extend the area of protection. This screen probably dates back to the 1880s and appears to be made of mahogany with brass decorations on the base.

Fire screens are used to keep sparks from flying out into the room and to deflect direct heat from scorching the area…or people! Screens are often made of wire, metal or glass. The older screen panels might have simply been a plain, utilitarian burlap. However, sometimes the front panels were a place for displaying needlepoint or fine fabrics like silk

The Museum Schedules!
The May-Stringer Tours Tuesday — Saturday 11am – 3pm 352-799-0129
The 1885 Depot Tours Closed through August 352-799-4766
The Countryman One Room Schoolhouse By Appointment Only 352-515-3054