The furnishings in the Magoffin Home are typical of 1880-1900. Various styles and influences are evident. In very general terms the furnishings fall into the Victorian styles. 

"Victorian" refers to the reign of Queen Victoria (1837-1901) as well as significant events in history that coincide with her reign. At that time, major changes were made in the design and construction of furniture. Most notable was the evolution of early power tools. The first circular saw was treadle-operated and dates to the early 1800s. Most Victorian furniture was made in factories using the new tools, rather than by skilled craftsmen and artisans. Decorative furniture parts were made separately from the main body and then glued, pegged, or tacked in place.

The Victorian age embraced progress and its potential. Social values were based on formality and correctness. The period is marked by elaboration and it disdained simplicity. The designs that emerged were not new-they were a revival of old styles.

The typical Victorian house was gaudy and cluttered by today's standards. There seems to have been a preference for quantity over quality. Large rooms with high ceilings had papered walls with overstated floral patterns. Painted finishes in wood grains and faux marble were very popular. Draperies were heavy, opaque, and fringed. Small valances called lambrequins were draped on bookcases, mantels, pianos, and even tables. Velvets, velours, brocades, satins, and horsehair were the upholstery fabrics of choice

The center of Victorian life was the parlor. Large homes had both a front or formal parlor and back family parlor. The front parlor was the showcase of the home and family. It was a statement of social status and influence and was the room for entertaining visitors.

Victorians were very fond of bric-a-brac. Fairly commonplace ornaments included cast metal cranes and herons, Chinese embroideries, vases, dried flowers and grasses, family albums, Bibles, Japanese fans, seashells and puffer fish or "porcupine" fish. All of these elements are evident in the historic photographs of the Magoffin Home.

Furniture styles can be fitted into broad categories of design. The designs cannot be labeled with specific time periods. The dates stated here are for the periods, which each style was popular and should not be used to date manufacture. The Magoffin Home furnishings generally fall into the following styles:

Late Empire: (ca. 1830-1855) noted for pillar and scroll designs. The style was favored by Napoleon and is associated with motifs found in Greece, Rome and Egypt. Most late empire pieces are veneered. Example: Oak library table in the family parlor.

French Revival: (ca 1845-1870) includes Louis XV and Louis XVI styles are marked by rococo decoration, curves, the detailing of flowers, fruit, leaves, and tendrils. Finger moldings (grooves 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide) are common elements. Other features include serpentine drawer fronts, oval tabletops, and cabriolet legs. Example: the host chair and sofa in the hall.

Victorian Renaissance: (ca 1860-1880) was a revival of classic themes of the Renaissance brought about by 19th century excavation of ancient ruins in Greece and Italy. Leaf molding, half round and rectangular columns and spiral/wavy ornamentations were featured. "Grand Rapids Renaissance" is included in this grouping. Furniture was predominately walnut with marble tops. Example: the square grand piano.

Eastlake: (ca 1870-1890) emphasized square or rectangular shapes, pegged rather than screwed joints. Short spindles, linear grooves, incised lines, and rough chip carving emerged in America. Ebonizing was common. The majority of furnishings in the home fall into this style.