FIRST OF THE DOUBLE PARLORS—THE FRONT PARLOR
The Front Parlor used by the Davis family as their parlor has, as has the back parlor or library, the same rounded corners, high ceiling, and frescoed walls and ceiling found in the reception hall. It is furnished almost entirely with original pieces; but the fine portrait of Jefferson Davis made after his 81st birthday is not one of these. It was painted by G. B. Matthews and presented to the Shrine by Mrs. Darling of New York. At the left of the door is a portrait of Mr. Davis’ mother.
The original pieces are the rosewood Knabe piano and the music book on it, loved possessions of Winnie Davis; the Davis Coat of Arms, painted by Winnie; the handsome center table, never moved from Beauvoir; the rosewood sofa and two armchairs and later the four matching little side chairs, returned by a great-granddaughter of Mr. and Mrs. Davis; and the small painting by the piano, done by Mrs. Davis of the hotel where she last lived—Hotel Gramatan, Lawrence Park, Bronxville, New York. It was given by a faithful servant of Mr. and Mrs. Davis to the UDC Chapter No. 858 of Chicago, and presented by the Chapter to the Shrine. The draperies, carpet, small pecan wood chair, and harp, are not Davis pieces.