Chestnut Ridge Residents Step into the Victorian Era for Tea-Time

Women of Chestnut Ridge at Rodale donned ornate hats and some of their finest mealtime clothing on Thursday, April 10, for a Victorian-era tea-time event.

As attendees funneled in, they were greeted with decorated tables of flowers, tea bags, sugar packets, condiments, and silverware. An expansive spread of finger sandwiches, desserts, and two large hot water dispensers sat on one side of the room.

Residents were instructed to take a cup and saucer set and claim their seats as they arrived. A main goal of the event was to unite residents who may have never interacted before, so cups were marked randomly according to each table.

Historian Jodi Hari, dressed in traditional women’s garb for the Victorian Era, led an educational conversation about the time period the event aimed to recreate. Hari discussed the many misconceptions and unspoken social rules regarding women during the Victorian and Georgian Eras. This included discussions about corsets, properly holding a teacup, and other societal expectations.

Hari brought with her a wealth of artifacts from the Victorian Era, many of which have been faithfully recreated due to their scarcity. Residents were free to interact with the assortment of items, which included old beauty supplies, fragrances, and more.

Afterward, residents learned about the history of certain teas and how they are made. Although the event was somewhat educational in nature, socialization remained a primary focus. Residents laughed and talked as they enjoyed their pastries and tea, discussing everything from the evolving role of women in society to the types of tea they prefer.

With the help of Phoebe staff, the room felt like stepping into another world for a moment. To learn more about Chestnut Ridge, schedule a tour today!

Written by Dominic Trabosci