 
The large dining room was the principle public space in the Marshalls' home. It is the largest and most formal room in the house. The room is neoclassical in style and many elements of its design (such as the columns and urn surrounding the fireplace) are based on Greek and Roman models.
This room was the center of most large-scale social events at the house and, like most spaces in eighteenth century houses, was designed and furnished to accommodate a variety of uses.
John Marshall held his monthly lawyers dinners here on Sunday afternoons, seating as many as thirty of Richmond's most prominent citizens. Food was served by enslaved African-Americans who probably brought it from the external kitchen, through the cellar, and up the staircase into the adjoining entry hall where it could be kept out of sight until needed. The process was overseen by enslaved butler Robin Spurlock from his nearby butler's closet.
If more space was needed, the furniture (including the large dining table which divides into three pieces) could be pushed against the wall to accommodate dancing, mingling, and the drinking of tea, punch, or other beverages. Particularly large events could spill over into the adjoining rooms.
John Marshall even used this space as an office for a time before a separate structure was built.
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