In honor of Queen Victoria’s Birthday, Victorian at Heart planned an outing. We had considered Lower Fort Garry but the weather was just too rotten with rain, rain and more rain. So we went to Maple Grove Tea House in Captain Kennedy’s House. After tea we posed for some photos.
Shirley wore her 1860s sheer dress.

I wore one of my 1880s bustle dresses.

Mr Mac Leod and his daughter were with us! After awhile, Mr Mac Leod had to head back to work so he left with his daughter. Shirley and I were headed to our cars. We looked at each other, neither of us ready to head home to modern clothes. The rain had stopped so we decided to head to the Fort as we originally planned and go to the tea they were hosting in honor of the Queen’s birthday.

Last year, when we had gone to the tea, we had it in the basement of the governor’s house. In later years that room had been used as a dining area for a motor club. We were expecting more of the same. It was a bit different this time. The staff person who was playing the Governor came out and lightly chastised us ladies for not having our men folk with us! It was fun playing the part of rebellious females who insist on traveling alone.
We began the tour of the house and saw a few rooms. When we got to the parlour we found the fireplace was all lit up. I had never seen it lit and didn’t know the chimney was still in working order! It was cool that day so I’m glad it was lit.

As you can see, the table was set for tea. I was very surprised to find that the admissions desk had called ahead and arranged for us to sit and have tea in the parlour just like real guests!

Shirley sat between the Governor’s wife and the Governor’s guest.

The Governor sat next to his guest and I sat between the Governor and his wife.

There was a maid that served the cake while Mrs. Colvile poured the tea. I kept falling out of character and trying to pour my own tea and not waiting for the maid to open the door for me! Obviously, I am nouveau riche and lacking in the social graces of the upper crust! All in all a wonderful start to the costuming season.