Dunbar Parlor

Ohio History

Elegant Sitting Room

Many admirers coming to see the famous poet were entertained in this parlor. I can see why the Dunbars had doors to close it off from the rest of the house, as many of the visitors would have been strangers. His poetry was spread far and wide. Mr. Dunbar wrote his poems in two distinct styles. His “dialect” style followed the African American folk language spoken by slaves, while “standard” English reflected conventional poetry. While he preferred the regular English, many of his publishers desired the dialect verse.

Sitting Room Fireplace

What a print for the wallpaper! Mr. Dunbar and his mother spent many hours in this cozy sitting room. I especially like that cute stove.