Phyllis Chapman, portraying Dr. Mary Walker, Civil War Doctor, is dressed in a vintage uniform.

What a successful event!  Our first-ever tea was extraordinary in every way, from the table settings, to the speaker, and most of all, the terrific food. Tables were graced with hand-embroidered tablecloths and distinctive teapots; tiered trays or beautiful ceramic plates holding assorted tea sandwiches and a variety of scones; and a ramekin holding a variety of distinctive Harney Teas.  After chatting with our table mates, we sipped on our tea, tasted several sweets and savories, and listened to Phyllis Chapman, our speaker.

Phyllis portrayed Dr. Mary Walker, a surgeon during the Civil War. The talk was phenomenal! Dr. Walker held our attention while showing us period pictures and telling us not only about her experiences, but also about other women who contributed to the war effort.

Our thanks go out to Althea Church, who led the team of members who collaborated on this event. Althea organized everything, including inviting the speaker, delegating members to bake or make all the sweets and savories, and suggesting that we get an assortment of Harney teas, including their highly rated London Fog, an Earl Grey tea that contains black tea, oolong tea, bergamot oil, lavender, and vanilla flavor. 

Several of our members asked me, “Who catered the event?” I proudly explained that the event wasn’t catered. The assortment of baked sweets and savory tea sandwiches were made by several of our members—Althea Church, Carolyn Webb, Suzanne Kilpatrick, Liz Luca, Julie Mackaman, and Jan Day.

You will probably be surprised to learn that their delectable creations were all simple to make! Take a look at the recipes, which the chefs have graciously shared with us. And if you try them out, be sure to let them know.