In an age where home decor trends come and go, it’s healthy to look back at the wisdom of homemakers from before the 1900s. Long before Instagrammable kitchens homemakers were already mastering the art of creating warm, organized, and loving spaces for their families.
Here are ten quotes from the 19th century and earlier that capture timeless lessons in homemaking and the values of family life.
1. “A place for everything, and everything in its place.”
– Mrs. Beeton, Mrs. Beeton’s Book of Household Management (1861)
This classic quote by Mrs. Beeton, the legendary British homemaker, is a reminder of the importance of organization. By creating a designated spot for everything, you can keep your home functional and reduce stress. In today’s world, we know that organization and calm often go hand in hand, making this advice as relevant as ever.
2. “There is no spectacle on earth more appealing than that of a beautiful woman in the act of cooking dinner for someone she loves.”
– Thomas Wolfe
While Wolfe wrote this line slightly later than the 1900s, the sentiment rings true for homemakers of both yesterday and today. The kitchen has long been seen as a place of nurturing, and cooking for loved ones has always symbolized warmth and care. There is something special about the love that goes into a homemade meal.
3. “The strength of a nation derives from the integrity of the home.”
– Confucius
Confucius’ ancient wisdom was often cited by 19th-century homemakers as a reminder of the impact of a strong home life. For generations, the home has been viewed as a foundation of society, where values are passed down and character is built. Today, the sentiment still holds: a strong, Godly home influences future generations and strengthens communities.
4. “The ornaments of a house are the friends who frequent it.”
– Ralph Waldo Emerson, Social Aims (1875)
Emerson reminds us that a home’s true beauty lies in the friendships and relationships it fosters. Decor can be beautiful, but it’s the warmth of loved ones that brings life into a home. This quote is a lovely reminder to create spaces that invite connection, laughter, and love.
5. “The house that does not comfort and delight in some way has a fault.”
– Charles Eastlake, Hints on Household Taste (1868)
Charles Eastlake, an influential figure in Victorian design, emphasized the importance of creating a home that feels welcoming and delightful. Whether it’s a cozy reading nook or a cheerful kitchen, creating spaces that comfort and inspire joy remains one of the best principles of interior design today.
6. “A good wife is the crown of her husband.”
– Proverbs 12:4
This bible verse, often quoted in 19th-century household manuals, speaks to the values placed on marriage and support of the wife within the home. The 19th century saw the family unit as a source of strength, and today, women who support their husbands still find their relationships to be the cornerstone of a harmonious home life.
7. “A home without books is a body without a soul.”
– Marcus Tullius Cicero
Books have long been seen as a way to nourish the mind and heart, which is why Cicero’s words were so often repeated in 19th-century discussions of home and education. In the digital age, physical books still have the power to give a home a warm, thoughtful atmosphere and create a sense of intellectual and emotional enrichment.
8. “Cleanliness is next to godliness.”
– John Wesley
While the phrase originated with John Wesley, this concept was widely accepted in 19th-century homes, where cleanliness was seen as both a moral and practical duty. Even today, keeping a clean space is linked to mental clarity and calm. This quote reminds us that caring for our environment can be a meaningful way to nurture our family’s well-being. By the way, a lot of people believe this is a verse in the bible. It isn’t!
9. “Home is the place where, when you have to go there, they have to take you in.”
– Robert Frost
Frost may have written this line slightly after the 19th century, but it perfectly captures the era’s ideal of home as a place of unconditional love and acceptance. Home has always been more than just a place to live; it’s a safe haven. Frost’s sentiment reminds us that a true home welcomes us back, no matter the circumstances.
10. “The kitchen is the heart of the home.”
– Traditional Saying
This age-old saying captures the importance of the kitchen as the central hub of the household. Before the 1900s, the kitchen was where families came together, shared meals, and connected with each other. Today, the kitchen still represents the heart of the home, where memories are made and traditions are passed down.
These timeless quotes offer us a glimpse into the values that shaped homes in the 19th century and before. They remind us that while technology and decor styles have changed, the essence of homemaking—creating a warm, welcoming, and meaningful space—remains as valuable as ever. These quotes serve as an enduring inspiration for homemakers of all ages.
