The Phelps-Hatheway House, 55 South Main Street, opens for its 48th season with something for everyone!! Please join us on Friday, May 3, at 5:30 p.m. to fete nature photographer, Libby Lord, as she opens the art gallery of the Phelps-Hatheway Visitor’s Center for 2019. Light refreshments will be served, and Libby will have a selection of breathtaking works for sale. Her photography show will remain installed at the Hatheway through October.
The first attic tour of the season will take place on Opening Day, Saturday, May 4, from 1:30-3 p.m. Join our staff as we wander through the museum and up to the third floor of the house on a journey of learning and appreciation for those who lived in the house through the centuries. The final stop of the Hatheway attic is filled with countless treasures of the 19th century. Regular museum tours will also be conducted during our open hours of 1-4 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays through October.
Garden enthusiasts will delight in the opening of the Suffield Garden Club’s May Market on Saturday, May 11 from 9-3pm on the Hatheway lawn and in the 1867 historic barn. Find native plants, essential tools and decorative items, many of which are made locally. Take a tour of our historic museum to discover the exquisite floral and garden motifs in our renowned wallpaper. A stop in the Phelps-Hatheway gift shop for a special book, colonial toy or a flavorful tea will help to check off your Mother’s Day and spring gift list. Remember, too, that a gift of membership for yourself or others makes an unexpected and long-lasting present!
A true sign of spring arrives on Sunday, May 12, at 2 p.m. with the annual Mother’s Day Tea in the Phelps-Hatheway Pine Room! Honor your mother or other beloved (or yourself!) with this unique experience of fine food and drink in an historic setting. A full tea service will be offered with quiche, delectable sandwiches, scones, pastries and, new this year, a festive punch served alongside of numerous pots of tea for your pleasure. Young guests may don a period costume to join in the celebration. For many, our Mother’s Day Tea is an annual tradition and one that cherishes our loved ones, history and the gardens (lilacs!!) that surround our beautiful property.
The exciting month of May finishes with a new offering to our calendar: “From our Gardens” with Julie Harrison on Thursday, May 23, at 6:30-8:30 p.m. Join Julie and the staff of the Hatheway house for a unique garden-to-vase experience. Utilizing the exquisite plant material from Julie’s farm and the Hatheway raised beds, we will create stunning bouquets just right for gifting! This workshop is the first of three to be offered throughout the season.
This month, take a quick trip or savor a leisurely afternoon right here on Main Street! For more information or to register for any of our programs and events, please call 860-668-0055 or visit our CT Landmarks website at ctlandmarks.org.