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Halls of History

Issue: 
May 2009

A Southern Colonial showcases a family’s storied past

Photographs by: 
Christopher Brown
Red velvet curtains, paired with rich-toned woodwork, separate the grand entrance from the back hall.
A guest book bears the signatures of family members and friends who have come to visit.
Grouped family wedding portraits form a gallery in the back hall.
Pieces from Catherine’s collection of Flow Blue china accent the elegant dining room.
The names of all the general store’s proprietors, including Edward and Catherine, adorn a plaque that hangs out front.
The wide array of antiques include pieces Catherine bought, like a carved back, tufted velvet chair, and others the couple inherited like the secretary in the parlor that belonged to Edward’s mother, Margaret.
The Washburn home, as well as the community, are registered historic places.
Framed photographs of the Washburn’s three children and their eldest daughter’s baby booties
Edward’s mother’s side of the family, the Philbecks, passed down an antique rope bed and quilt.