Afternoon Tea in America and England: Edwardian Tea Party May 11th!!

On May 11th the Trumbull Historical Society will once again host the Edwardian Mother's Day Tea at two o'clock in the afternoon. The ladies of the THS welcome you to join us for this wonderful fundraiser as we celebrate motherhood, sisterhood, friendship and elegance together in an afternoon filled with dainty sandwiches, delectable sweets, large hats and Whittard tea brought all the way from England! 

Tickets are $20 for members, $25 for non members. Reservations are REQUIRED due to limited seating. Call 203-377-6620 or email Trumbullhistory@gmail.com to reserve.  

Tea time was an important part of daily life in Edwardian England. The Edwardian era followed the reign of Queen Victoria, in the years 1901-1910. However, some consider the Edwardian era to extend to the beginning of World War I. In America, this period was known as the Gilded Age at the end of the 19th century, followed by the Progressive era.  In America, hosting tea parties was an easy and economic way for women of the lower and middle classes to have guests over to their home. Tea rooms also become quite popular, as it was one of the few public places that could not turn women away. Remember, at this time, most social clubs were exclusively male! Picnics were also in fashion. Edwardians loved celebrating nature and spending time outdoors. For the first time, the idea of leisure activities and long weekends became a necessary part of leading an upper class life style. 

In England, there were both high and afternoons teas. High teas included meat and were a more formal affair.  An afternoon tea was much more informal, with the tea service provided by the hostess as opposed to servants. In America, the hostess greeted her guests herself at the door, and invited them into the dining room where she poured the tea for her friends. Servants were usually available to clear away any dirty dishes. American's were also quite fond of iced tea, which became a very popular afternoon drink. Tea was a time to engage in pleasant conversation and gossip with friends. Ladies often wore "tea dresses" which were also less formal and more comfortable than their evening gowns. 

As the hostesses of the Historical Society, will excuse our servants for the day to provide the tea service ourselves. There will be a musical performance, presentations on Edwardian era customs, and an exhibit on Edwardian fashion. Each guest will receive a favor and raffle ticket for some surprise give aways! We must insist our guests come in proper attire. Large hats, decadent jewlery, gloves, dresses, and Gibson Girl hair styles are highly encouraged!

Hope to see you there!