01/11/2024
Interesting
Do you know what this glass ball symbolizes? In the South during the 1800s, a family would install a glass ball at the end of their banister after paying off their mortgage as a subtle sign of wealth. Traditionally, homeowners would also burn thier mortgage papers and place the ashes under the ball during installation.
The ball pictured, which is located in the Oak Hill home, is likely a different spin on the tradition. Thomas Berry was able to purchase the home outright, so this glass ball was probably installed when the house was built without any ashes hidden underneath!
(Photo by Emma-Louise Ramus)
