Gaslight Gala commemorates 120 year-old Clayton House wedding

It was a step back in time on Friday evening (Nov. 22), as 150 guests gathered at The Clayton House in Fort Smith for the first annual "Gaslight Gala." The Victorian-style Christmas celebration featured cocktails, food, music, beautiful decor, and appearances by some of Fort Smith's most legendary figures.

The evening's festivities paid tribute to the Jan. 2, 1894, wedding reception of one of the home's former residents, Miss Anne Clayton, and her groom, Mr. Will Farris. Mimicking the nearly 120 year-old celebration, the Gaslight Gala incorporated decor typical of the late nineteenth century and included members of the original reception's guest list.

"We are having some fun tonight harking back to a very special evening during the holidays in 1894 – the wedding night of Anne Clayton," said Julie Moncrief, Clayton House executive director. "An intimate wedding here at the home attended by close friends including Judge and Mrs. Parker was followed by a huge reception attended by all of the fashionable society."

Guests were greeted by hosts William and Florence Clayton, portrayed by Harold Trisler and Gayle Ross, as well as Judge Isaac and Mary Parker, played by Floyd and Sue Robison. Also in attendance  were the bride and groom, Anne Clayton and W.L. Farris, depicted by Bambi Clifton and Marcus Woodward, and the wedding officiant, Rev. Smythe, played by Rick Watson. All characters were in full costume, reflecting the lavish fashion of the era.

Constructed in the 1852, the Clayton House was purchased as a family home by William Henry Harrison Clayton in 1882. Clayton, who served as the federal prosecutor in the court of Judge Isaac Parker, doubled the home's size and renovated it into a Victorian Gothic Italianate-style mansion. His family lived in the home until 1897.

The building faced demolition in 1969, but was saved with the formation of the Fort Smith Heritage Foundation. The club championed to save the structure, which underwent a complete renovation from 1970-1977.

The historic home was decorated for the holidays by local florists and area designers. Unique flower arrangements, Christmas trees and other seasonal pieces were featured throughout the rooms. Dining tables scattered throughout the main floor were topped with lavish centerpieces and programs outlining details from the famed "Mistletoe Wedding."

Throughout the evening, guests were treated to choral and instrumental music, performed by local artists. A quartet from the Fort Smith Chorale traveled from room to room delighting visitors with holiday tunes and other classics.

Dozens of items were up for bid in the gala's silent auction. Among the pieces included were several artworks by the late John Bell Jr., as well as holiday wreaths and trip packages.

A wine pull, featuring more than 20 red and white varieties, was also held. For $20, guests were entered into the drawing for the chance to take home a bottle of their own. Tickets for the gala were $50 with all proceeds supporting the continued preservation, maintenance, and programs of the Clayton House. Organizers hoped to raise at least $8,000 from the event.

The Clayton House is open to the public and is available to rent for weddings, parties, or receptions. Clayton House guided tours are offered for $2.50 for non-members, $1.50 for students ages 12-18, and free to members. Tours are held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday, and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Membership opportunities begin at $15.