Forming part of the North Wing built in 1871, the Reception Parlour was traditionally used for receiving formal visitors and hosting very special occasions. One such event would have been celebratory dinners for the parents of noviciates who had just been professed as Sisters of Mercy.
From the 1930s through to the 1960s, local debutantes in their white gowns would be formally presented to the Mother Superior in the Parlour before heading off to their debutante ball. Today, this beautiful room continues its tradition of hospitality, used to welcome and entertain guests of the College.
The Parlour houses four remarkable tapestries hand-worked by the early Sisters during their brief hours of leisure. Dating between 1874 and 1890, these intricate pieces depict both religious and secular scenes:
