City Directories and History: In 1975 -1976 when the restoration of Brattonsville earnestly began, the brick foundations remained of five of the Homestead’s brick dependencies. It is commonly assumed that there were originally eight of these structures. The two standing structures in 1976 were the Dairy/Office next to the Homestead House and the slave cabin, which was at that time located on private property. Brattonsville’s early director, Joe Rainey sincerely believed the intact brick building next to the house was Dr. Bratton’s medical office. However, subsequent information and interpretation suggest it was more likely used as a secondary kitchen – dairy. The basement would have been ideal for use as a storage area for items needing temperature control and the preparation of meals took far more space than provided in just one small kitchen. In reality no conclusive evidence has come to light on its history. Executive Director, W.B. Fairey, Sr. felt strongly the structure was simply used as a secondary kitchen with storage underneath. It was his theory that the Dairy dependency would have been located adjacent the brick kitchen on the west side of the complex, where at the time a depression in the ground suggested the structure located there would have perhaps had a basement.
What is most important to understand is that these cabins whether original or reconstructed on their original foundations, are significant architecturally and historically. Not only do they enhance the architecture of the complex but they were clearly intended to embellish the importance of the individuals living in the main house. Therefore, the brick dependencies closest to the road were constructed larger and the slave cabin or secondary buildings slightly smaller. In any case, the desired effect of permanence, embellishment, and enhancement were achieved through their construction.
Several archaeological firms were used to study and interpret their findings when digging the foundation ruins of the reproduction brick cabins. In each case, there was clear evidence as to the pattern of usage and use of the individual structure. Local architect Milton Sadler was hired to design the reproduction buildings and Dick Ferrell was contracted to reconstruct them authentically during 1992.
Also enjoy the slave cabin project at: Slave Cabins
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