Celebrating Love and History at Woodlawn

Nothing says romance quite like a Victorian tea at one of Mount Vernon’s historic mansions.

Two dozen people celebrated Valentine’s eve Sunday at Woodlawn Plantation at an authentic Victorian tea and house tour. Guests dined on the customary fare of tea, finger sandwiches, scones, breads, and desserts.  To help set the mood, harpist Chris Van Dyke played a compilation of her favorite classical pieces including "Storybook Love" from The Princess Bride.

Since Woodlawn had not hosted a Valentine’s Tea for over a decade, the return of the event was exciting for Stacey Hawkins, Woodlawn’s long-time site administrator.  As for the “tea-goers,” Hawkins said, “I like to believe they enjoy the warm, friendly, and cozy atmosphere within the beautiful historic home.”

Lurene Townsend of Springfield came to the event to enjoy a familiar atmosphere.

“I love coming to teas,” said Townsend, who had visited Woodlawn before, but was enjoying her first tea at the estate.

The tour highlighted historical stories and facts about some of the romantic pairs that were a part of Woodlawn’s rich history including George and Martha Washington, John and Rachel Mason, and Oscar and Bertha Underwood, among others.

The Valentine’s Tea is among an assortment of teas planned this year at Woodlawn.  According to Hawkins, eight to ten teas are advertised to the public each year celebrating events such as springtime, Mother’s Day, Flag Day, and the winter holidays.  This year, a Scottish Heritage Tea is planned for October along with a Cauldron’s Tea for Halloween.

To learn more about the upcoming teas at Woodlawn Plantation, please visit their website