18th Century Colonial Tea

“I partook of most excellent tea and I should be even now still drinking it, I believe, if the Ambassador had not charitably notified me at the twelfth cup that I must put my spoon across it when I wished to finish with this sort of warm water. He said to me: it is almost as ill-bred to refuse a cup of tea when it is offered to you, as it would [be] indiscreet for the mistress of the house to propose a fresh one, when the ceremony of the spoon has notified her that we no longer wish to partake of it.” Prince de Broglie recorded how he was taught the complexities of etiquette while on a visit to England in 1782.

Did you know that the ritual of drinking afternoon tea in the 18^th century had so much etiquette involved, it could go on for hours? Or, that a cultured person ate with three fingers, while a commoner ate with five? (This 3 fingers etiquette rule is still correct when picking up food with the fingers and handling various pieces of flatware.)

It is no surprise that early North America, colonized by Europe, was a tea-drinking continent. Europe's same traditions and rules of etiquette crossed the Atlantic with our ancestors. Tea houses were poplular throughout the thirteen colonies. Elegant silver and porcelain tea accessories were for sale at every store. . .And I’m sure you’ve heard that tea has been known to start a revolution? If not, read up on the Boston Tea Party. . .

 But, let's get back to afternoon tea. . .It might go something like this:

    Greeting/handshake

    After sitting down — put purse on lap or behind you against chair back.

    Unfold napkin on your lap.

    Sugar is placed in the cup first, then thinly sliced lemon and never milk and lemon together. Milk goes in after the tea. (There is much debate over this, but according to the Washington School of Protocol, milk goes in last.) The habit of putting milk in tea came from the French. “To put milk in your tea before sugar is to cross the path of love, perhaps never to marry.” (Tea superstition)

    The correct order for eating is to eat savories first, scones next and sweets last.

    For scones, split horizontally with knife. The curd and cream is placed on plate. Use the knife to put cream/curd on each bite. Eat with fingers neatly.

    The spoon always goes behind cup. Never leave the spoon in the cup.

    Do not hold your pinky up. This is not correct.

    A guest should look into the teacup when drinking, never over it.

If you have never attended an 18^th century afternoon tea, you are in for a treat. On Saturday, May 4th, costumed interpreters from Sassafras Creek Originals will serve three different teas and fancy finger foods while teaching the history of tea in Colonial America. The event will be held at Sassasfras Creek Originals, 311 St. Mary’s Road in Ste. Genevieve. You will literally step back into a time when tea was a popular social event. The tea cup and saucer is yours to take home, but that’s not all. You will also receive a gift from the Felix Valle house!! Surprise Mom with an early Mother’s Day gift and bring her with you. Party starts at 3:00. You must reserve a place in advance by calling Kandye at: 573-513-2491. 

Come join the interpreters for an enjoyable 18^th century afternoon. . .Wear your own 18^th century costume if you want, but it isn't necessary. . .Just come and join in the party. . .It will be unforgettable. . .

I'll be there in costume myself, with "bells on". . .