The Victorian era (1837 to 1901) was named after Queen Victoria. The era is split into three styles. Early Victorian style had a distinctive Georgian simplicity, mid-Victorian had heavier masculine decorations, and late Victorian brought in a feminine influence. Because it coincided with the Industrial Revolution, people were enjoying new-found affluence. The middle class could finally afford a lifestyle previously reserved for the rich, and followed high Victorian style, cramming their homes with furniture and decorations showing their prosperity, cultural interests and status. Kitchens were, just like the rest of the home, a place to display their wealth.
Step One
Strip off old paint. Victorian woodwork is intricate, but is often covered in coat after coat of various types of paint. Sand all the moldings, doors and window casings until you're down to bare wood. Stain the moldings, doors and window casings a dark wood stain such as walnut for an authentic look.