A Brief History of FloorclothsFloorcloths were used in Europe for centuries to cover and protect wood and other hard floor surfaces. They were at the height of their popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries. Popular designs mimicked expensive flooring materials such as marble. Early settlers in the United States ordered floorcloths from artisans in Europe before bringing the art to the colonies. Evidence of floorcloths being used in the White House has been found in probate and financial records dating from the first presidents. George Washington had one listed in financial records from 1796. He took it with him when he left office. One of the oldest floorcloths still in use is at Nottoway Plantation in Louisiana; it dates from the mid-1800s. Floorcloths fell out of vogue around the time of the Industrial Revolution when mass production techniques made floor coverings like linoleum widely available. Today, floorcloths are regaining popularity with people who are rehabbing old homes and people who just want something truly original in their homes. |
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© 2005 Gee Gina |