Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
The Craig County Historical Society and the Craig Valley Chapter, National Daughters of the American Revolution (NDAR) transformed the historic Old Brick Hotel into a charming venue for a special afternoon tea on Wednesday, May 8. The event proved immensely popular, with two seatings filling the dining room of the hotel.
Photos by Bonnie Cranmer
Guests were warmly welcomed and offered a selection of hot and cold teas, alongside refreshing lemonades. The centerpiece of the event was a visually stunning display of three-tiered serving trays overflowing with delicate tea sandwiches. These delightful treats, crafted with care, came in a variety of flavors: classic chicken salad, pimento cheese, and refreshing cucumber. But the culinary journey didn’t stop there. Freshly baked scones, accompanied by rich cream and a selection of fruit jams, awaited eager palates. And to top it all off, an assortment of delectable sweets capped off a truly decadent afternoon tea experience.
The tea options themselves were as diverse as they were delicious. Guests could savor the exotic notes of Passionfruit Peach or the robust character of Colonial Bohea. For those seeking a lighter option, Paris, Summer Afternoon Tea, and Jane’s Garden Tea offered delightful floral and herbal notes. The Tost Rose and Sparkling Lavender Lemonade provided a touch of bubbly refreshment, perfectly complementing the sweet and savory treats.
This special event served a dual purpose: celebrating the rich history of Craig County and raising funds for important upcoming projects. The Craig County Historical Society and the Craig Valley Chapter, NDAR, are dedicated to safeguarding the county’s heritage. Their ongoing efforts encompass the restoration of the Old Brick Hotel, the preservation of historic log cabins, the maintenance of beautiful gardens, and the continuous expansion of the invaluable genealogy library. A special reminder of the upcoming July 4th parade and how interest and attendance is growing was shared.
The event also highlighted the ongoing renovations at the Clifton Store, located adjacent to the genealogy library. After completing the exterior renovations last year, work is now progressing on the building’s first floor interior. There’s still much to be done, and the organizers invite the community to participate in upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.
Those who would like to delve deeper into Craig County’s history or contribute to its preservation, know that the door is open. The genealogy library welcomes visitors every Friday from 1-4 p.m. To learn more about the Old Brick Hotel or the Clifton Store, contact the Craig County Historical Society directly at 540-864-5489.
