Children's Room | Dining Room | Kitchen | Knox Bedroom
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Dining Room  

Table settings are changed regularly by members of the Historical Society to reflect special or seasonal events in the valley in the years between 1895-1912.

Before the 1993-1994 renovation, the floral carpet lay in an upstairs bedroom. During restoration, its brilliant ruby/pomegranate hues were used to establish the color theme used throughout the downstairs. This decision was a recommendation made by period experts, based upon the availability and use of colored paints introduced during this time period.

The oak dining table and two plain chairs were gifts from Henry Stell, a native El Cajonian born in 1902. The table was the first piece of furniture purchased by his parents, Henry Stell and Victoria Griebnow, following their San Diego marriage in 1894. Typically, dissimilar chairs are available for use at the table. The display of wheat and fruits on the table represent typical crops grown commercially in the valley. Of special note are the grapes, from which raisins were stemmed, dried, and packed -- prize winners in the 1893 World's Fair in Chicago. During these years, approximately 3,000 acres of valley land was in viticulture. Nationwide distribution had become possible when train service began in 1889.

The china cabinet contains dishes and silver donated by various people. The large bowl holding a display of plants was donated by Salome Weinstock Rothenberg who moved as a child into El Cajon with her family near the turn of the century.

 

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