Once upon a time, being rich wasn’t just about what you owned—it was about how you flaunted it. These luxuries were more than just extras; they were essential for anyone who wanted to say, “I’m richer than your dad,” without saying a word. Here are ten of the forgotten luxuries hard to spot today.
Private Chapels in Estates
Back in the day, people thought, why go to the local church when you could have one on your property? Private chapels of the rich hosted weddings, christenings, and awkward family sermons. As estate maintenance got pricey, the chapels became less common.
Library Wings with Rare Book Collections
This one said, “I’m an educated member of this society (with more money).” Homes had entire wings dedicated to rare books and first editions. Now, more educated and successful individuals promote minimalist decor against giant libraries that will turn into “that room no one uses.”
Gold-Plated Flatware Sets
Imagine eating your mashed potatoes with a gold-plated fork. Fancy, right? Those days, gold-plated sets were a must for over-the-top dinner parties. But times changed, and people realized it’s hard to justify eating with gold while worrying about dishwasher-safe settings.
Private Opera Boxes
Nothing said “I’ve made it” quite like owning an opera box. More than seats, they were like VIP lounges for showing off your wealth and pretending to enjoy opera. Today, most boxes are rented out or sponsored by brands. Owning an opera box is just a musical relic of the past now.
Automated Butler Systems (Dumbwaiters and Bell Pulls)
Before texting, rich people had a fun way of summoning their staff: mechanical bell pulls and dumbwaiters. Whoever needed a sandwich from downstairs would pull a cord. Systems like these are now mostly found in period dramas and haunted mansions.
Live-In Governesses
Do you know why some wealthy families didn’t send their kids to school in the past? Because they had someone like a teacher living in their homes. Governesses were part teachers and part babysitters. Sadly, private schools and tutors took their jobs.
Handwritten Calling Cards
Dropping by someone’s house wasn’t as simple as a quick text. People would leave a personalized calling card—basically, a fancy “I was here” note. They were all the rage in the 1800s, but with phones and social media, this tradition has gone the way of the dodo.
Private Art Galleries Within Homes
Nobody rich hung a few paintings. They dedicated an entire wing to their art collection. Private galleries were mostly a reminder for guests that they could never afford such masterpieces. Modern rich folks do this by sticking to a few centerpieces or digital art forms costing millions.
Personal Footmen
Footmen were the original luxury accessory—dapper guys in uniforms who opened doors, served meals, and made you look important. However, between the cost and the sheer awkwardness of it all, footmen became a thing of royal households or historical reenactments.
Estate Carriages
When cars were not made, wealthy families had fancy horse-drawn carriages to shuttle them around their vast estates. Maintaining the horses and stables was a lot, so when cars showed up, the carriage took a backseat. Only a few collectors and families still like the feel of it.
