18. The Circular Staircase

The circular stair leads to the servant's quarters and wardrobe rooms on the third floor. Sometime before Mrs. Belmont left Belcourt, the staircase hall was modified to its present state.

The support for the treads comes mostly from the center oak pole, about 12" in diameter. Made of oak, handrails and outer panels steamed and bent into shape, the staircase winds to the right in the Norman fashion. The man descending - defending the house - has advantage in a duel over an intruder because his right arm holding the sword has freedom of movement, whereas a right-handed intruder would be constantly hampered by the center pole. The plaster that sheaths the bottom of the stair is original and in remarkable condition for its century of use.

A. Servants Quarters on the Third Floor
The butler's room was originally lined with blue cotton damask.

B. Wardrobe rooms
above the madame's bedroom had enough space for eight changes of clothes each day for the 6-week season.