Merchants House unveils restored Irish Servants Quarters

servantroom-(2) — Before the restoration: Merchant House Museum’s fourth floor Servants Quarters.

The Merchant House Museum’s intimate glimpse of domestic life as lived from 1835-1865 is about to get a little more intimate, as they reopen their fourth floor Servants Quarters to the public for the first time since its extensive restoration began. In the first floor parlor, and in the second floor bedrooms, you can see the original furnishings and personal possessions of the wealthy Tredwells. But it’s the fourth floor that was home to the family’s ever-changing roster of Irish servants. Climb the narrow staircase and see how the other half lived (and did some of their work). In addition to substantial structural repairs, the Servants Quarters also underwent a comprehensive paint analysis — making it the first space in the house to be repainted in its authentic 1850s colors.

The Grand Reopening takes place Sat., March 17, from 12-5pm. At the Merchant’s House Museum (29 E. Fourth St., btw. Lafayette & Bowery). For info, call 212-777-1089 or visit merchantshouse.org. Regular Museum hours: 12-5pm (closed Tues. & Wed.). Admission: $10 ($5 for students/seniors).