Warming Up In An 1800s Winter

It's not officially winter yet but it will feel like it is in Charlotte this weekend with highs in the 40s, lows in the 20s, and a chance of snow. Keeping our homes warm won't be a problem, though, thanks to our fancy central heating systems. In an 1800s winter, that was more challenging.

The Weather Channel toured the Merchant's House Museum in New York City, which is preserved in its 19th Century state. Heating the home in those days was one chore after another. If you were a member of the family, you probably kept yourself reasonably warm throughout the winter. However, while the servants might have been warm while working in the kitchen, at night they slept in consiberably colder conditions. Be grateful for modern comfort.