The Clayton House Presents Social Etiquette for Victorian Valentines

The Clayton House will present a light afternoon tea Saturday, February 9 with the theme, “Social Etiquette for Victorian Valentines.” The one-hour tea beginning at 2 p.m. will include a brief program by museum staff on rules of behavior for young ladies and gentlemen in the Victorian era. The tea is open to all ages.
Attendees will enjoy stringed instrument music, tea and delicate treats, a Valentine craft at their individual tables, and demonstrations of the many signals that could be sent with the wave of a fan or turned corner of a calling card. During the Victorian era (1837-1901), young couples were not allowed to express their admiration or interest in one another directly, so flirting became a necessary means of communication. Young women could flirt with their fans, men could send sentimental poetry, and both sexes could send meaningful flower arrangements. General rules of etiquette for men and women will also be shared.
Cost of the tea is $12. Reservations may be made by calling the museum at 479-783-3000 or emailing [email protected]. A complimentary tour of the historic home of the chief prosecutor of Judge Parker’s court, in which W. H. H. Clayton and his Southern belle wife, Florence, raised six daughters and one son from 1882 to 1897, will be provided after the tea. The Clayton House is located at 514 North 6th Street in downtown Fort Smith.