The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia (CHSV) is pleased to offer July’s theme tea at Magnolia Grange.  Do you remember your Grandma’s apron? You're invited to July's theme tea on July 21, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. to learn about the old-fashioned garments written of here: 

            “The strings were tied, it was freshly washed, and maybe even pressed.
            For Grandma, it was everyday to choose one when she dressed.
            The simple apron that it was, you would never think about;
            the things she used it for, that made it look worn out.
            She may have used it to hold some wildflowers that she'd found.
            Or to hide a crying child's face when a stranger came around.
            Imagine all the little tears that were wiped with just that cloth.
            Or it became a potholder to serve some chicken broth.
            She probably carried kindling to stoke the kitchen fire.
            To hold a load of laundry, or to wipe the clothesline wire.
            When canning all her vegetables, it was used to wipe her brow.
            You never know, she might have used it to shoo flies from the cow.
            She might have carried eggs in from the chicken coop outside.
            Whatever chore she used it for, she did them all with pride.
            When Grandma went to heaven, God said she now could rest.
            I'm sure the apron that she chose, was her Sunday best”.

                        -A Poem by Tina Trivett-

Our guest speaker will share the history and culture of the apron, and has many samples to show. Prepaid reservations are required; call Tamara Evans 804.796.1479.

The cost to attend each tea is $25 per person.

The Chesterfield Historical Society of Virginia is a non-profit 501(c)3 organization that serves as the center for Chesterfield county history. Headquartered in historic Castlewood on Iron Bridge Road in Chesterfield, the Society’s mission is to collect, preserve, interpret and promote the county’s unique past for the education of present and future generations.  For additional information or to volunteer, please visit www.chesterfieldhistory.com