Children's Bedroom

Continue into the next bedroom which is installed as a children’s bedroom, with toys and clothing on display. Originally this room was divided in half to house two staff.  The painted furniture set belonged to William Rotch, Jr.’s granddaughter, Joanna Rotch (1826 – 1911). Her likeness hangs over the bed. The large dollhouse was originally played with by Emma Billings Hathaway, a cousin of Emma, Amelia, and Sarah Jones. In the 20th century, ownership passed to one of Sarah’s children for her grandchildren to enjoy. Examples of toys and children’s clothing are in the closet area. 

The Jones daughters were partially raised by staff and women family members, as their father did not marry again until they were adults. Surviving letters and journals reflect that Edward Coffin Jones cherished his children, and the feeling was fully reciprocated by his daughters. Daughter Amelia described him as “a most affectionate father, wise and impartial, sharing all our interests and making us his companions at all times.” Once the girls were older, Edward often took them with him on his trips to Boston or New York. When that was not possible, he often returned with books or presents for his daughters. 

The Jones daughters were not defined by strict social norms and expectations normally put on young girls in the Victorian era. Like their father, the Jones daughters enjoyed reading, theater, and art. 

All three daughters attended Friends Academy in New Bedford. William Rotch Jr. was one of the founders of the school, along with fellow Quakers Samuel Rodman, Samuel Elam, Thomas Arnold and James Arnold. It opened in January 1811 at the corner of County and Elm Streets. The Jones daughters would have attended the girls’ school, built a block away on Morgan Street in 1857. 

Exit by the doorway to your left, into the sewing area.