Mediaboss Marketing

The First Colorado Infantry Company D, a living history group out of Denver, returned to Gold Rush Days with a special treat. As the infantrymen practiced their musket demonstrations, the women gathered for a Victorian tea.

This marks the companys third year at Gold Rush Days. Each year, it presents something different to the public. This year, the company ladies decided to bring in more feminine appeal.

Were trying to bring different aspects of Victorian life to Gold Rush Days, said Rebecca Hunt, company member and history professor at University of Colorado Denver. The men are doing the Civil War military piece, and were showing that there was a civilian side as well. A tea is something that excites peoples imagination.

Personally, Ive been doing living history events for over 40 years in all kinds of settings, Hunt added. I think its really important to bring history to life for anyone whos interested in any kind of community that wants to host a living history event because people dont always understand the past. Its very interesting and very complicated.

A Victorian Tea for women in dress was held at the Civil War encampment on Aug. 12 at 1 p.m. At 2:30 p.m. the tea became open to any women who wished to participate, no matter the age.

As adult women sat together and conversed while sipping their tea, children sat at another table, trying out the tea, cookies and cucumber sandwiches and learning about life during the 1800s.

Many of the girls commented on their favorite cookies and what dresses they liked. Some came dressed up as well.

Meanwhile, two of the company women would explain to them the different kinds of dresses worn during the period, how children were educated at home and how girls would learn to sew by the age of 4.

I think its great. It gives us a great opportunity for people to see how things were in the past, said company member Kelly Hall.

While dressing in Victorian garments may seem a hassle nowadays, it isnt so for these ladies. I think its delightful. I do it whenever I can, said company member Jenny Wright.

Wearing a dress she made for herself, Hunt doesnt even think of it as dressing up. Ive done it so much, this feels like my normal clothing, she said. When I move into my 1860s clothing, I also move into my 1860s state of mind. I enjoy it; I wouldnt do it if I didnt enjoy it. I love the opportunity it gives me to talk to people.

Next year, the company hopes to come up with another new idea to try for Gold Rush.

For any men or women who would like to join these historians, the First Colorado Infantry Company D welcomes everyone.

Read the original post:
Victorian tea party brings history to life in Buena Vista - Chaffee County Times