Parlour

Hampton's Parlour is furnished to the earliest period of Ridgely family occupancy (1790-1810).

With its early date and less formal style, the Parlour provides visual and cultural contrast to the later, more ornate rooms. During the Federal era, the Parlour functioned much as a sitting or family room does today.

The Parlour reflects the tastes and lifestyle of Governor Charles Carnan Ridgely (1760-1829), and his wife Priscilla Hill Dorsey (1762-1814). As Mrs. Ridgely was an ardent Methodist, however, the ostentation and lavish furnishings seen in later rooms at Hampton are not present here. The room is now usually arranged to show informal activities such as a lady's morning room or family tea party.