The dollhouse sits on 3rd Ave in New Brighton, nestled within the stretch of huge historic homes that was once referred to as "Executive Row" or "Millionaire's Row". These were the homes of the business owners and entrepreneurs of New Brighton's early days.
My research of the dollhouse began with Eleanor McPherson. Her parents bought the home in 1930. Her parents George and Cora owned an insurance company. Eleanor's grandfather, Mannon McPherson was quite successful in his many endeavors here in town and dabbled in multiple business ventures. His plaque sits proudly in the foyer. Their presence can be felt here. Mike's grandparents knew Eleanor. She lived in the dollhouse her entire life. She spent her days reading in the sunroom.
The original owners, came to New Brighton from England and owned a grocery and hardware store. Nothing has been found on the second owners. The McPherson's are the third family to occupy the dollhouse.
My research continues but it is obvious that each owner was an entrepreneur of sorts.
As I have been unboxing our lucky trinkets, the dollhouse comes alive! It is happy to see the samurai statues and swords once again. Statues and peacock feathers in every room. Each room balanced and harmonious! The vibe and flow of this home is exhilarating!
The energy here was not always this way and sometimes past heartache and broken promises can be felt, followed up with the reminder of those who lived here always trying their very best. Overachievers to a fault, at times, but always leading with an intense heart.
The smell of cigars linger through the dollhouse. A reminder of her history. Built-in wine cabinets showcase the stunning chef's kitchen. Endless wine and champagne flowing in celebration of newest successes!
The men in the next room with their cigars and bourbon boasting to one another, while their wives gossip. Their conversations echoing through the foyer drown out the trains rolling through town.
The piano playing softly in the grand room while the children play upstairs.
Each chapter in the dollhouse's book of life tells incredible stories unique to each family who lived here. Each room records and holds dear moments experienced here. The joy and pain felt by each family can be felt in every corner.
Each room has details remaining, documenting the raw, intense emotions felt here as each owner pushed themselves past their comfort zone to take chances on manifesting their dreams. That dedication and devotion can be felt strongly at the dollhouse.
Discipline, courage, endurance, stamina, wisdom, and hope scream from the walls. The dollhouse's energy lifts you, inspires you. You can hear her whispers to keep going and to not give up. Every moment alive is a moment to celebrate!
The ugly olive green dress in the closet can stay there.
I do not want to wear it.
It is expected of me to.
I do not care anymore.
I had the most terrible slumber last night just to wear this hairstyle today.
I am going to wear my favorite rouge with the dress to match.
It is a masquerade ball anyway and the feathers of my mask hide my identity. I can be who I want to be tonight.
All dressed for the ball, at the window seat, I stand tall. Standing tall in my rouge dress, rouge lipstick, black diamonds and pearls. I place my crown of feathers on my head, the proudest peacock feathers!
Jazz begins to play in the grand room. Silver trays of treats and crystal flutes of champagne float past my eyes, almost floating in the air as the staff breeze around the guests.
Everyone is dressed in silks and velvet, gold, silver and diamonds. Intricate masks and costumes overcrowded the first floor of the dollhouse. Cedar, cinnamon and citrus mixed with the scent of fresh baked breads filled the rooms. Loving embraces exchanged with gifts delicately wrapped in shiny paper and big bows of all colors!!
It had been a difficult, trying week and it was hard to keep moving. The weight of my world on my shoulders. Society's pressures pulling at me.
I straightened my crown of peacock feathers, grabbed my love by the arm and proudly strutted into the great room for all to see.
As the music moved me, I felt an incredible burst of energy from within. Life moves up and down and after a period of downs, it was time to experience life's ups once again! And as the jazz played on and the champagne flowed, we celebrated life at the dollhouse! Cheers!
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