Step into the 19th century with a visit to the William Root House Museum & Garden, where the "Dressed for Summer" exhibit showcases how Southerners lived—and kept cool—before the advent of air conditioning. With interactive electronic touchscreens, guests can navigate the museum on their own, delving into the lives of the Root family and their house servants.
At the heart of Marietta, this historic home, built circa 1845 for pioneers Hannah and William Root, now serves as an immersive time capsule. Furnished to mirror the 1860s, visitors will find bamboo mats replacing the rolled-up carpets and white slipcovers giving a fresh look to the otherwise dark upholstered furniture. Such details outline the practical elegance of a bygone era, while sealed fireplaces held at bay the intrusions of birds and pests. These efforts, according to their website, were all part of the strategy to create "an airy space designed for summer comfort."
The museum does more than exhibit relics; it also educates visitors on the ingenuity of southern living during the sweltering summer months. The recreated cookhouse exhibits a functioning 1850s cookstove, and the main house has been restored with authentic furnishings, following diligent efforts to respect historical accuracy. "Dressed for Summer" is not just an exhibit; it is an experience enveloping visitors in the atmosphere of the past, accessible through September 28, with the cost included in the regular museum admission.
As the first house museum in the U.S. to offer a fully self-guided touchscreen tour, the William Root House provides a blend of history and technology. It stands as more than a monument to heritage—it tells the story of an America far removed from the grandeur of columned mansions that popular culture often romanticizes, instead it offers a glimpse into the authentic domestic sphere of its era. Those interested in this intimate exploration of Southern history can plan their visit by going to WilliamRootHouse.com.
