Upstairs at the Polk Home, Columbia, TN (3 of 5)

The downstairs of this mid-nineteenth century home was obviously designed for entertaining,  the upstairs suitably apportioned for the family's private life.

At the top of the stairs is a small study with this rustic secretary and an enclosed bookcase containing Mr. Polk's law books.

From the study, you step into a re-creation of Sarah Polk's bedroom from the era of her husband's public service, displaying the accouterments of the modern political wife.  Note her travel jewel chest on the left juxtaposed to the folding travel desk in the center of the room.  Sarah had been encouraged in her education since childhood, so  her good looks and Southern charm were not all this forward thinking woman brought to the table.

Next, we step forward in time to Sarah's bedroom as it would have been fitted for the grieving widow, aged by her four years in the White House and mourning her husband's premature death from cholera.  Her mother-in-law's portrait hangs over the mantle and the fire screen stands ready to protect her wax-based makeup from the comforting warmth of the fire place.

Sarah's bed stands in the corner, with her walking stick handy.  Her mourning shawl and lace gloves, which she wore the rest of her life,  are laid out on the traditional bedspread.

As you prepare to descend the stairway back into the home's public space, you are struck by this portrait  of Sarah Childress Polk's mother.  It was she who encouraged Sarah's education and her own wisdom seems to be captured in her enigmatic smile.

Don't miss seeing this and the other fine portraits collected in the home of James K. Polk.  Plan your experience by first visiting www.jameskpolk.com.