The old Dutch cocoa house in the grounds of Kelvingrove Park at the International Exhibition of 1888.
This reproduction of a 17th century house was erected by C J Van Houten & Zoon's Dutch workforce using original tiles, woodwork and furniture. Girls dressed in Dutch national costume served refreshing cups of cocoa to visitors.
Walking around a large exhibition proved a tiring experience for many, and refreshment facilities were in great demand. Van Houten's cocoa house competed for business with the various tea rooms in the grounds of the Exhibition.
Reference: Mitchell Library, GC f606.4 (1888)
Reproduced with the permission of Glasgow City Council, Libraries and Archives
Keywords:
C J Van Houten & Zoon, cocoa, cocoa houses, Dutch, exhibitions, International Exhibition, 1888, Kelvingrove Park, parks, refreshments, tea rooms