Wine Tasting with the Friends of Mead Hall March 8

MADISON, NJ - The Friends of Mead Hall welcome the public to Mead Hall at Drew University, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison, NJ for a talk, “In High Spirits: Drinking Wine and Liquor in the 1830s”, on Sunday, March 8, 2015 at 3 p.m.

Drinking a different wine with every course of your meal was considered the height of elegance during the time the Gibbons family lived in Mead Hall. Mr. Gibbons had a notoriously well stocked cellar. From his accounts, it is evident that he enjoyed many of the popular wines of the times: from Claret to Madeira to “Champaign.” He also seems to have consumed beer – quite different from the kind we drink today. Alcoholic cider was a common drink,, which, in those times, people could have for breakfast.

Jennifer Scanlan, a curator at the Museum of Arts and Design in New York City, will discuss the many kinds of wine and spirits that might have appeared on the table in Mead Hall. The talk is followed by a wine-tasting reception, when some of the types of drinks known to Gibbons in the pre-Civil War period of the 19th century can be sampled.

The event is free for all Friends of Mead Hall members, and $10 for non-members. RSVP is requested by calling 732-832-1878

Mead Hall is an outstanding example of the Greek revival style, built in 1833-36 by William Gibbons as a country home. In 1867, “the Forest” was purchased by Daniel Drew for the founding of the Methodist seminary, and renamed Mead Hall after his wife. Today Mead Hall serves as an administrative center for Drew University. There will be an opportunity to tour of the building during the reception.

The Friends of Mead Hall was established to ensure the continuing preservation of Mead Hall, a state and national architectural landmark. Through a range of educational events and programs, the Friends seek to encourage greater public awareness of its historical significance, and support for its continuing preservation. For more information visit the website www.friendsofmeadhall.org.