History of Avoca's Unique Features

Today we’d like to discuss some fun facts behind two of Avoca’s unique features. First, have you ever wondered why Avoca’s main staircase has a balcony? When the house was being constructed in 1901, the Fauntleroy’s worked closely with the lead architect. Family legend holds that Thomas Fauntleroy’s dog had a habit of napping on the staircase. A dog sleeping mid-staircase is of course a tripping hazard. In order to remedy this problem Thomas had the architect construct the stairwell balcony as the perfect place for the dog to sleep, but rumor has it that the spoiled pup maintained his treasured spot on the stairs. Secondly, if one were to peel back the rug at the head of the table in the dining room, there’s a chance you could catch a glimpse of a strange mechanism. This mysterious mechanism is a little “magic” trick that Thomas Fauntleroy loved to play on his dinner guests. For example, during dinner Thomas might mention how some cake would be an excellent dessert, and while he is saying this, he is simultaneously pressing a pedal underneath his foot. This pedal connects to a bell in the kitchen which then rings, alerting the kitchen staff that it is time to bring in the planned treat. So, almost like magic, as soon as Thomas presses the foot pedal a member of staff is there suddenly to fulfill this seemingly passing thought.