What are Boarding Houses?
Boarding houses have become a rare sight in the United States, but at one time they served roughly the same purpose as modern ‘bed and breakfast’ establishments. At least one daily meal would be included in the boarders’ rent, whether it be a communal breakfast, lunch or dinner. In exchange for a bed and meals, individual tenants in boarding houses might also be expected to share in the maintenance chores and other tasks assigned by the landlord or homeowner.