BY JONAS BEALS

Care for a proper cuppa?

Mary Washington and her daughter, Betty Lewis, enjoyed teatime as much as any Colonial-era matriarchs.

In fact, archaeologists have discovered tea service artifacts at Ferry Farm.

A Sunday event at Historic Kenmore Plantation offers people a chance to engage in that same ritual and an enjoy a time-honored social occasion as George Washington's family might have.

For $100, curious patrons get high tea and tours of the Kenmore house and a lecture by Alan John Watson--Baron Watson of Richmond and author of the book "The Queen and the U.S.A."

"It worked out well that Lord Watson could come," said Special Events Coordinator Louisa Morton.

A buffet dinner is included.

The tea served will be a special blend created by Fredericksburg resident Martha Crimmins, who will be on hand to explain the tea and the ceremonial aspects of the service.

"We will end the evening with a Madeira toast," Morton said. Madeira is a fortified wine that was popular in America's Colonial period.

If you want to get that proper cup of tea, there are still a few tickets available. Call 540/373-3381, ext.18.

The event will run from 5 to 9 p.m.

Jonas Beals: 540/368-5036
Email: jbeals@freelancestar.com