-Gretchen Althoff Synder

The Rye Historical Society recently hosted an engaging and delicious spring break camp, A Taste of History: Victorian Voyage. The program received rave reviews from participants, who were excited to learn about the history of food during the English Victorian Age. In preparation for a traditional tea party, the children made one of Queen Victoria’s favorite treats, Victoria Sponge Cake, as well as homemade strawberry jam. And of course, no tea party is complete without traditional scones, which the kids made from scratch and slathered with the jam. The kids also learned some intriguing traditional English teatime etiquette tips: never wave your teacup in the air or leave your spoon in the cup, especially while drinking!

In addition, the kids explored the art of creating Victorian-style hand fans, discovering that fans were used as a silent language, conveying messages and emotions with a flick of the wrist. Exploring the secret signals and gestures that were once the talk of the town in Victorian society, they uncovered a fascinating aspect of history hidden within the folds of their handmade fans.