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#### **3. The Influence of Victorian Design**
Homes built in the 1800s, especially those in the Victorian era, were heavily influenced by Victorian design principles, which were often elaborate and ornamental. During this time, homes were designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Architectural features like built-in cabinetry, high ceilings, and decorative moldings were common, and these features often had both a decorative and practical function.
High cabinets, especially in kitchens and pantries, were often part of this Victorian aesthetic. The cabinets may have been placed higher up not only for practical storage purposes but also as part of a visual design element. The idea was to create a sense of height and grandeur, with cabinets reaching toward the ceiling to create a sense of openness. These cabinets weren’t just for storage—they were part of the overall design, contributing to the home’s majestic and elaborate feel.
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### **What Could That Cabinet Above the Pantry Be For? A Fun Speculation**
So, what about that high cabinet in your farmhouse? If you’re like many people who live in historic homes, you might find yourself scratching your head at the mystery of its purpose. It’s too high for everyday use, but it’s still there, waiting for answers. Let’s have a little fun and speculate on some possible reasons for this odd cabinet placement.
#### **1. The “Out of Sight, Out of Mind” Storage Solution**
As we mentioned earlier, the high cabinet could have been used for storing things that were needed infrequently. It’s possible that this cabinet was once used for storing items that were only brought out once in a while—perhaps the “fancy” dinnerware, special holiday baking items, or seasonal preserves. The location of the cabinet made it easy to store items that weren’t needed regularly but were still essential.
If your pantry was packed to the brim with goods that needed regular access, this high cabinet might have served as a place to keep less frequently used items out of sight but still within reach when necessary.
#### **2. A Space for Safety or Security**
Another possibility is that this high cabinet served as a storage space for more valuable or fragile items. Old farmhouses often didn’t have the kinds of secure storage solutions we take for granted today. In this case, the high placement of the cabinet could have been a way to keep items like glass jars of preserves, bottles of medicine, or even important documents safely out of reach of children or animals. It’s possible that, at one time, the high cabinet was used to store breakable or valuable items that needed to be kept in a safe, secure location.
#### **3. The “Time Out” Closet (Literally!)**
Given that your boyfriend jokingly referred to the high cabinet as a place for “time outs,” we can’t help but wonder if this was a playful suggestion rooted in reality. In the past, homes often had small, hidden rooms or spaces that were used for private moments or for children to take a “break.” Whether this space was used for a time out or for something else entirely, the high cabinet might have been an attempt to keep an area of the home reserved for more private activities.
Imagine a time when the home was a bit more rigid, with strict family rules about who could be in the kitchen or pantry and when. This high cabinet could have served as a way to keep some things out of sight, whether they were personal items or simply an area where someone could retreat for a quiet moment.
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### **How to Repurpose a High Cabinet in Your Own Home**
If you have a high cabinet in your kitchen or pantry that seems too difficult to use, you might be wondering what to do with it. Instead of letting it gather dust, consider repurposing it in creative ways. Here are a few ideas for giving that high cabinet new life:
#### **1. Extra Storage for Bulky Items**
If your kitchen or pantry has limited storage space, the high cabinet could be a great place to store bulkier items that you don’t need to access frequently. Think of things like large bags of rice or flour, extra canned goods, or holiday cooking supplies. While it may not be the most convenient spot for everyday items, it’s perfect for those things you don’t need right at your fingertips.
#### **2. Display Space for Decorative Items**
If you’re a fan of rustic or vintage décor, consider using the high cabinet as a space to display decorative items like antique kitchenware, vintage dishes, or family heirlooms. This can add character to your farmhouse kitchen while also making use of otherwise wasted space.
#### **3. A Hidden “Snack” Cabinet for Kids (Or Adults)**
If you have children, the high cabinet could be repurposed as a “secret” snack cabinet. Store treats or snacks up high, where the little ones can’t easily reach them. This could help you control their snack intake while also making the cabinet a fun, hidden spot that only adults know about.
#### **4. A Place for Special Occasion Items**
If the high cabinet is in a kitchen or dining area, it might be perfect for storing your special occasion items like fancy dishes, glassware, or holiday serving trays. Keeping these items out of sight but easy to access when needed can help keep your kitchen organized.
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### **Conclusion: The Charm of Quirky Farmhouse Features**
The mysterious high cabinet above your pantry in your 1890s farmhouse is a perfect example of the quirky, charming features that old homes often possess. While we may never know the exact purpose of this odd cabinet, its very existence highlights the ingenuity and practicality of homeowners from the past. Whether it was used for seasonal storage, special occasion items, or as a creative solution to space constraints, the cabinet is a testament to the home’s history and the people who lived there before you.
Ultimately, this high cabinet, like many aspects of old farmhouses, is a part of what makes your home unique. Embrace its mystery, have fun speculating on its original use, and perhaps even find new and creative ways to make it work for you today. After all, the beauty of living in a farmhouse with such rich history is that you get to carry on its story while adding your own personal chapter.
Who knows—maybe that high cabinet will become your new favorite hidden gem!
