By 1808Delaware
The Delaware County Historical Society invites residents and visitors to celebrate the fall season with an elegant Harvest Time Victorian Tea at one of Delaware’s most historic landmarks, the Nash House. Scheduled for Saturday, October 26, from 10:00 AM to Noon, this special event will take guests on a journey back to the Victorian era through a blend of immersive storytelling, traditional tea etiquette, and a tour of the historic home.
The Rich History of Nash House
The Nash House, originally built in 1878 for Thomas and Mina Slattery, is a significant part of Delaware’s architectural heritage. This seven-room Italianate-style brick home has stood the test of time, maintaining its original structure even with modern upgrades to its electrical, heating, and plumbing systems. In 1885, it became the property of William Henry Nash, whose family resided there for nearly 70 years, deeply embedding their legacy into the house’s historical narrative.
Today, the Nash House functions as a museum under the care of the Delaware County Historical Society, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into life in the late 19th century. The house features a well-preserved collection of period furnishings and artifacts, many donated by local families and descendants of the Nash family. Pauline Nash, a descendant of William Nash, generously contributed family heirlooms to enrich the museum’s collection and serve as educational tools for the community.
Victorian Tea Experience
The Harvest Time Victorian Tea will offer more than just a delightful selection of sweets, savories, and a special Nash House tea blend. Guests will be treated to a historical reenactment by Maggie Webb, portraying Minnie Slattery, a prominent figure from Delaware’s past. Webb’s performance will include insights into Victorian tea etiquette, adding authenticity to the occasion.
As part of the event, participants will learn about the history of tea and its significance in Victorian culture. Attendees can expect to be transported to a time when tea was not merely a beverage but an event marked by specific rituals and social norms.
Tour the Nash House Museum
Following the tea, guests will have the opportunity to explore the Nash House’s unique features through a guided tour led by knowledgeable docents from the Delaware County Historical Society. These tours will cover both the architectural highlights of the Italianate-style home and its period-accurate interior design, which includes original woodwork and furnishings that evoke the elegance of the Victorian era. Additionally, various exhibits showcase artifacts from the Nash family and other historical items significant to Delaware County’s heritage.
Through engaging stories and displays, the tour aims to provide a deeper understanding of the lives of the Nash and Slattery families, as well as the broader historical context of Delaware County during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Event Details and How to Register
The Harvest Time Victorian Tea is open to both members and nonmembers of the Delaware County Historical Society. Admission prices are set at $24 for members and $28 for nonmembers, with advance registration via Eventbrite required to secure a spot. The event’s intimate nature means space is limited, making early registration essential.
Guests are encouraged to embrace the autumn ambiance, enjoy a taste of history, and learn more about the Nash House’s place in Delaware County’s heritage.
