The wide central hall is a major difference
between American Federal style homes (of which the Hermann-Grima House is an example) and French Louisiana homes.

The latter do not have halls; rooms open directly into each other.

The hall was decorated and furnished by the National Society of Colonial Dames in the State of Louisiana.

The hall would have been used as a reception area. All guests would enter through the front door, where an enslaved house servant would greet them.  If the family were home and receiving visitors, then the guests would be escorted to the parlor to wait.

If the family were away from
home or not receiving callers, the
visitor would leave his or her
card on the hall table. 

Serving Table; c. 1835; Boston;
mahogany with white marble top.

 
 
 

Hermann-Grima/Gallier Historic Houses Administrative Office
820 Saint Louis Street New Orleans, LA 70112
Phone:(504) 525-5661 Fax: (504) 568-9735 Email: info@hgghh.org