The Kitchen at the Home of James K. Polk, Columbia, TN (4 of 5)

Leaving the main house through the dining room server's door, you come to the last stop on the guided tour, the kitchen.  In the early 1800's the kitchen was always detached from the main house because of the risk of fire.  The Polk's kitchen has not been modernized , as is the case with so many historic homes.

Looking to the right, as you traverse the worn brick walkway that connects the kitchen to the dining room, you get a glimpse of the classical garden that graces the rear of the property.  This fountain near the two houses provides a focal point, with brick pathways radiating in all directions.

You are welcomed into the kitchen by the "prep table" which, at mealtime, might bear food waiting to be served in the dining room.

A cluttered work area to the right gives evidence of the activity normally found here.

The adjacent room contains relics from the period including an early American round table with a large "lazy susan", some herbs from the garden and a spinning wheel.

To arrange for your group's nineteenth century cooking class, contact www.jameskpolk.com.