Old Mill Village volunteers Sue Furney, Christina and Miranda Button and Joe Fedorchak prepare to serve high tea at the Victorian Christmas event held at the museum’s New Milford Church.
BY STACI WILSON
A step over the threshold of theOldMillVillageChurch,New Milford, on Saturday, was a step back to a more relaxed holiday time.
Since 2006,OldMillVillageMuseumhas been hosting its Victorian Christmas Tea in the 1860 church it acquired nearly 30 years ago.
Event chair Cindy Wooden, ofCASS’ The Wooden Spoon, said, “Even with the many other teas being held this time of year, I’ve only been to one other that offers a whole meal.”
The Wooden Spoon is the official “food provider” forOldMillVillageMuseum.
Wooden’s meal – a high tea – offers a selection of tea sandwiches, from the traditional Cucumber and Cream Cheese on potato bread to a Turkey with cranberry mayonnaise on 12-grain.
Victorian Christmas Tea organizer Cindy Wooden serves up a platter of egg salad sandwiches, as Old Mill Village volunteer Tim Button helps himself to one. STAFF PHOTO/STACI WILSON
In addition to the sandwiches, the vast buffet was spread with scones, pickled beets, pickles, ambrosia and more than several dessert offerings.
Wooden said, “The menu basically stays the same year to year. I look at what has been successful and what was most commented on. Every year I like to add something new.”
New on the buffet this year was a flourless, chocolate cake.
Wooden said she starts preparing food for the event about one week in advance.
No reservations are required for the annual event, patrons are seated by Victorian costumed servers and tea orders are taken before the buffet is offered.
A steady stream of diners came ready to take a break from the hectic holiday season.
Paul Gere of South Montrose said, “It’s such a treat.”
New Milford’s Jane Zick and her sister Gail Post, along with other friends and family attend the tea each year.
“It’s always delicious and it’s just beautiful,” Zick said. “It gets you in the Christmas mood.”
The Victorian Christmas Tea is offered to the public, free of charge, but donations are accepted.
In addition to the tea, there is also a silent auction as well as Victorian ornaments offered for sale.
Proceeds from the tea help benefitOldMillVillageMuseumChurchfund, Wooden said.
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