The Carlin House

Construction of the Carlin House was completed in 1845 and is one of the oldest and most unusual houses in our area. As a “grout house,” built by laying courses of a kind of cement on top of one another, it has won a place on the National Register of Historic Places. It is furnished with mostly 19th century antiques, some of which are original to the house. Thus, the house itself and the contents as displayed have historic significance. We have taken care to assure the historical integrity of the floors, wallpaper, lights, and furnishings so that visitors can gain insight into how our Palmyra ancestors lived.

Some of our antiques are labeled for easy identification. But the house is best explored with the assistance of a docent, who is always available during museum hours and by appointment.

First Floor

FOYER

A wide variety of farm and household items, two men playing a friendly game of cards.

SUMMER KITCHEN

Complete with stove, pump, boiler, utensils, and homemade jam being conspicuously consumed by a young child.

DINING ROOM

Fine china, cabinetry, articles from the Carlin and other Palmyra families.

MUSIC ROOM

Not originally for music but containing an Edison cylinder phonograph, carved wooden organ, restored coal stove from a local barbershop, many other antiques.

PARLOR

Original or near-original furnishings, Carlin and Turner family photos, “paper punch” embroidery, tiny mittens knitted with toothpicks, “stereoscope” for viewing photographs in 3-D.

Second Floor

GRANDMA’S BEDROOM

Rope net bed supporting a “tic” mattress, many other antiques.

CHILDREN’S ROOM

Dolls, books, cradles, family bathtub.

GROUT ROOM

Opening on inside wall shows grout construction of the house.

SEWING ROOM

Early sewing machines, shoes, women’s clothing on mannequins and in closets, chests, cabinets, jewelry boxes, etc.

The Carlin House​