Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Clayson House Tea

Clayson House Tea

A couple weeks ago, my husband and I attended a tea at the local historical society museum, the Clayson House. It was a fundraising event that included eight seatings over two weekends.

When we arrived, the butler greeted us at the door. What a fun way to start the event!

Clayson House Tea

They had turned the 1874 home into a tea parlor, with guests seated in the two parlors and in the dining room.

Clayson House Tea

Clayson House Tea

We were seated in the dining room near the kitchen. The ladies who volunteered were dressed as servants, with long black dresses and white aprons!

Clayson House Tea

The fine china and silverware was set out. Everything looked so nice!

Clayson House Tea

Each table had a tiered tea tray filled with finger sandwiches and sweets.

Clayson House Tea

There were scones with strawberry butter,

Clayson House Tea

Lemon curd tarts and cream puffs,

Clayson House Tea

And fancy candies and cookies!

Clayson House Tea

I thought these Wedgwood cameo candies were adorable!

Clayson House Tea

Darjeeling tea was served in a variety of pretty tea pots.

Clayson House Tea

One lump or two?

Clayson House Tea

Our table was next to the sideboard. On it I spotted the most beautiful gold cup and saucer!

Clayson House Tea

Needless to say, this set was not being used for guests today!

Clayson House Tea

After the finger sandwiches had been eaten and the beautiful sweets were gone, it was time to have another pot of tea and listen to the presentation given by the volunteers. This year's theme was "Things Found on a Lady's Dressing Table." Items from the 1890's, the 1920's and the 1950's were shown and passed around to each table. It was fun to see how these items changed over the decades.

Clayson House Tea

I didn't get any photos of the presentation items. Before we knew it, it was time to leave.

Clayson House Tea

Have you been to a Victorian Tea lately? If you get the chance, I highly recommend it! You'll be transported back in time to a more genteel era. And it really is delightful if the setting is a beautifully restored Victorian house!


Labels: ,