“But if you find you have some time, how wonderful if we Could have a little chat and share a cup of Christmas tea.” Tom Hegg
By Linda Elissalde
The invitation wasn’t for a cup of Christmas tea from an aunt, but for A VICTORIAN, VALENTINE TEA from Barbara Gordon McNeill and Friends. It was to be held on February 14, 2022 at the historic Sanders-McNeill house in Beaumont, Texas. We needed to RSVP. So, Dr. Melanie Wallace and I did just that and took off to find out about this special event. We certainly were glad we did.
First of all was the house itself. Contractor James Wellman built the two-story Queen Anne Style house for Robert Washington Sanders and his wife Ida Mae in 1895. Mr. Sanders was a master wood carver and did the finishing work. “Using native woods such as cypress, curly pine and cedar, he carved the ornamental details on the exterior as well as the front door, the interior spiral stair case and much of the furniture inside the house.” It is beautiful.
And beautiful was the Victorian, Valentine Tea. Each room provided a table set with exquisite delicious delicacies. Of course, tea was served, but other beverages were available. Melanie and I visited all the downstairs rooms and tasted something from every table. Barbara and friends were welcoming and willing to share history of the Sanders-McNeill house. In addition to the charming atmosphere, I met up with friends from my school days in Beaumont. Alas, Melanie and I had to leave before the tea ended. Nevertheless, we delighted in a fabulous afternoon.
Hostess Barbara Gordon McNeill shares information about the wood carving of Robert Washington Sanders
If you receive an invitation, what a pleasure it will be To visit the Sanders-McNeill House for a cup of Victorian, Valentine tea!
[Mar-1-2022]
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