Pictured on the fireplace from left to right is Dante, Socrates, and Lord Byron. Dante and Lord Byron were very influential poets, Dante being of the classical era, and Lord Byron of the romantic era. Although both Dante and Byron were excellent poets, they are featured on opposite sides of the tiling for a reason. Dante’s biggest work was “The Divine Comedy” where the characters descended into hell in order to reach heaven. In this piece, Dante represents living for the eternal. Byron on the other hand lived in the moment, fighting for democracy and staging rebellions in Greece. Socrates, placed directly above the fireplace is known for asking questions and forming logic on the basis of the answers received.
The question that Havilah poses to his children and descendants in this fireplace is a choice between living for the eternal or living in the moment. One of the most interesting aspects of this story is the paths that Havilah’s children took. On one hand, Caroline Babcock chose to become a missionary, while on the other, George lived for the moment in Louisville, maintaining a box at the Kentucky Derby, producing bathtub gin during the depression, and hosting parties were famous jazz bands became
his weekend guests. This fireplace is certainly one of the most charming aspects of the house, and its story has been passed down for generations.
The question that Havilah poses to his children and descendants in this fireplace is a choice between living for the eternal or living in the moment. One of the most interesting aspects of this story is the paths that Havilah’s children took. On one hand, Caroline Babcock chose to become a missionary, while on the other, George lived for the moment in Louisville, maintaining a box at the Kentucky Derby, producing bathtub gin during the depression, and hosting parties were famous jazz bands became
his weekend guests. This fireplace is certainly one of the most charming aspects of the house, and its story has been passed down for generations.
Pictures Courtesy of Mr. Peter Adams