Volunteers at Historic Rugby will host a Valentine Tea in the Village’s Newbury House on Sunday, Feb. 14, at 3 p.m. EST. Proceeds from the event will go to support the historic preservation missions of Historic Rugby.
The Valentine’s Day event will be the first in a series of formal teas hosted throughout the year in the 1880s Victorian Village. Guests will be served fine teas, along with warm scones, roasted red pepper soup, scrumptious sandwiches, and a smattering of bite-sized desserts.
“This is a wonderful event to share with someone special for Valentine’s Day,” noted Historic Rugby Executive Director, Teresa Bowman. “We encourage couples, mothers and daughters, and anyone else who wants to have a great experience to attend.”
Ms. Bowman noted that dress for the tea can range from vintage Victorian clothing to more casual attire. “Everyone is welcome,” she said.
The afternoon event will be accompanied by live music. Historic Newbury House has been welcoming guests almost continuously since 1880 when the British-American village was founded. It features authentic Victorian era furnishings to help you step back in time.
Seating is limited so make reservations soon. Because of space limitations, some guests may be seated at tables with others. Cost is $16 per person or $30 per couple. To make your reservation, call 423-628-2441.
Rugby was founded in 1880 with the goal of building a strong agricultural community through cooperative enterprise, while maintaining a cultured, Christian lifestyle, free of the rigid class distinctions that prevailed in Britain at the time. The village has continued for 135 years, with numerous original buildings either restored or recreated. Learn more about the history of Rugby and its unique attractions at www.historicrugby.org.
Rugby is located just off State Scenic Hwy. 52, 16 miles southeast of Jamestown and 35 miles from either Interstate 40 or I-75 in East Tennessee on the southern edge of the Big South Fork National River and Recreation Area.