In March 1775, Farmington resident Martha Cowles publicly confessed to serving British tea in violation of the Continental Association, the colonial boycott of British goods adopted by the First Continental Congress in 1774. Her words survive in the pages of the Connecticut Courant. On June 20, you can meet her.

The Stanley-Whitman House LiberTea Party begins with traditional tea service in the Whitman Tavern: tea, scones, and seasonal fruit, poured in the spirit of resistance. Guests then move to the Speare Classroom, where co-chair Jane Dalal presents the story of Farmington on the eve of the Revolution and the political stakes of something as ordinary as a cup of tea. Alyce Barlowski follows as Martha Cowles, bringing to life the moment when one Farmington woman's domestic act became a public confession of political consequence.

The afternoon closes with a guided tour of the historic 17th- and 18th-century gardens led by Andrea Donald and Dooryard Garden Society volunteers, exploring the plants that sustained colonial households and how the disruptions of war, trade, and boycott reshaped what Farmington families grew, gathered, and ate. Historic house tours are available throughout the afternoon at regular admission rates.

Every dollar from ticket sales goes directly to the preservation and interpretation of the Stanley-Whitman House gardens and grounds. Garden Bed Sponsorships at $250 are also available; contact averzosa@stanleywhitman.org for details.

Tickets are limited to 40 attendees and are available online through Eventbrite or by check to the museum. Early registration is encouraged as this event sells out.

Part of the FarmingtonCT250 programming series at Stanley-Whitman House. Stanley-Whitman House is a proud official affiliate of the America 250 | CT Commission. Join us for these commemorative events.

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