Material World of Eyre Hall: Revealing Four Centuries of Chesapeake History

Eyre Hall, built in 1759 on Virginia's Eastern Shore, is occupied by descendants of its builder, Littleton Eyre. This volume explores the house's historical, sociological, anthropological, and architectural significance, with a catalog raisonné of its material culture. It includes two family trees and four major maps, along with stunning color photography.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 20 September 2021
Publisher: D Giles Ltd

Nestled on the Eastern shore of Virginia, Eyre Hall stands as a testament to history, with its construction dating back to 1759. Today, the hall remains inhabited by descendants of its builder, Littleton Eyre, who has passed down a rich heritage of treasured objects that reflect the diverse tastes and aspirations of the many families who have called it home. Spanning generations, Eyre's descendants have diligently acquired and preserved a remarkable collection, showcasing a diverse range of artifacts that encapsulate the essence of the house's history.

This comprehensive volume, featuring extensively researched text from 22 contributors, is divided into four main sections. The first section delves into the historical significance of Eyre Hall, tracing its lineage from the first generation to the present owner, Furlong Baldwin. It explores the architectural evolution, social context, and cultural influences that shaped the house and its inhabitants over the centuries.

The second section examines Eyre Hall's sociological and anthropological importance, shedding light on the roles and experiences of the various families who lived there. It explores the social structures, hierarchies, and daily lives of the residents, highlighting the impact of family dynamics on the house's architecture, decor, and material culture.

The third section delves into Eyre Hall's architectural significance, exploring its unique design features, construction techniques, and historical context. It examines the architectural styles, influences, and innovations that shaped the house, and explores how these elements have contributed to its enduring appeal and cultural value.

The fourth section presents a comprehensive catalogue raisonné of Eyre Hall's material culture. It encompasses a wide array of objects, including furniture, silver, ceramics, glass, paintings, prints, books, musical instruments, bound sheet music, textiles, and miscellaneous items. Each object is meticulously documented, providing detailed descriptions, provenance, and historical context, allowing readers to appreciate the richness and diversity of the collection.

In addition to the scholarly content, this volume also includes two family trees—one tracing the lineage of the Eyre family and the other documenting the individuals who worked at the house in the early 20th century. These family trees provide valuable insights into the social and professional networks of the house and its inhabitants.

Furthermore, four major maps accompany the text, providing detailed visual representations of Eyre Hall's location, surrounding areas, and historical connections. These maps enhance the reader's understanding of the house's place within its historical and geographical context.

To complement the scholarly content, stunning new color photography of Eyre Hall, its grounds, and the catalogue pieces is included. These photographs showcase the house's architectural beauty, intricate details, and the vibrant life that has unfolded within its walls over the centuries.

In conclusion, Eyre Hall: A Legacy of Preservation and Collecting is a remarkable testament to the enduring significance of a historic house. Through its comprehensive exploration of history, sociology, anthropology, architecture, and material culture, this volume offers a deep understanding of Eyre Hall's rich heritage and its place in American history. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars, historians, and enthusiasts alike, providing a glimpse into the lives and experiences of the many families who have called Eyre Hall home.

Weight: 2344g
Dimension: 237 x 291 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781911282914