 
Most elite houses of the late eighteenth century contained a withdrawing room like the one at the Marshall House. The room received its name because it was traditionally the place to which women would withdraw after a meal. This allowed the men to remain in the dining room to discuss politics, smoke, and drink together--activities considered inappropriate in the presence of ladies. Like the other rooms on the first floor, the withdrawing room was elaborately paneled and wallpapered to impress visitors to the house.
The Marshalls probably used this room for both formal entertaining and for quiet family gatherings. Here they sat, talked, read, listened to music and sewed. Mrs. Marshall may also have served tea, coffee, or chocolate (three fashionable beverages of the period) using the beverage set now displayed in the room.
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