My favorite is the toddler “cage” by the fireplace in the entry room. It is unique and probably hand built. Its use is indescribable. ~ BHS Docent, Cobb House Museum
This early child’s highchair/playpen used through many generations, belonged to Ida Winslow Foster, who was born at High Brewster. ~ Gift of the Cleverley-McConchie Family
18th and 19th century homes contained many hazards for young, mobile children. Open fires posed a particular danger, as did the scalding water usually heating over it. Baby tenders like this one kept little ones temporarily out of harm's way while older household members performed their day-to-day tasks. Most households did not use such devices. They often relied instead upon older children to watch over younger siblings. Young children were often left entirely to their own devices, sometimes with tragic results. americancenturies.mass.edu