The pantry served several purposes.  Fine china, crystal, and silver were stored here, and the sink enabled Mrs. Gallier or a trusted slave/servant to wash the dishes here, rather than carry them to the kitchen where the pots and pans were cleaned.  Fine china was imported, came in large sets, and was costly to replace.  Gold leaf and hand painting made special handling of the china even more necessary.

The pantry also functioned as a serving room.  Food was brought from the kitchen, transferred in the pantry to fine dishes, and served to the dining room.