Southern Summers: Junebugs and Juleps Official Cocktail

Well, folks...the time has come that I begin my annual posts to help secure the success of our event planned for this weekend.  Junebugs and Juleps summer benefit will begin at 7PM this Saturday night (June 9th) and will end at 11PM.  Several local photographers have promised some wonderful pieces for sale and DJ Jim Stacey will be spinning "ALL SOUTHERN" inspired music.  We'll have some great nibbles and plenty of cocktails.  The museum will be open for casual self guided tours of our summer exhibition Southern Summers.  The suggested donation for non APTA members is $30!  Trust me, it's worth it! 

So, if you like frosty adult beverages, great music, and fantastic art...you should reserve your place today!  You simply don't want to pass this up.

Enjoy the clip, the "yankee boy" actually mixes a great drink...with authentic accuracy (except the simple syrup...but, it's just that...simple).  Hope to see ya'll this weekend!

Inside the WF: Summer Chandeliers

I received a call from a friend who reads this blog with a question about a picture.  I took the following picture last year during Southern Summers.  The response was so great that I'm going to find myself teetering from a very tall ladder again this year! 

There are a few reasons why folks covered chandeliers in the summertime.  The first is simple, the fixture wasn't used.  Chandeliers used candles (gasoliers used gas)...they created unwanted heat in the house. 

The second is to keep the fixture clean while the windows were open.  Remember, there was no air conditioning!  Many streets, at least here in Memphis, were compacted dirt and clay during this time.  The dry dusty whirlwind would float right into the house through the unscreened windows.  Other furnishings like fine silk sofas, chairs, and settees were also covered for protection during the summer. 

Thirdly, and probably a more offensively, was to keep the flies away.  Most of these grand chandeliers were crystal or cut glass.  The prisms would sparkle and shine in the daylight hours.  To flies and water bugs, the shimmering reflection looks like water...drawing them in search of an afternoon drink!  The insects would land on any "water-like" surface and secrete acids.  This acid eats through crystal prisms, glass, and mirrored or reflective surfaces.  Leaving behind what we call "water spots".  In addition to chandeliers, most mirrors, glass, crystal, and silver were covered with net for protection from these pests.

And, even today some "Old Southerners" still cover up heirloom chandeliers...as a nod of respect and tradition.  A friend of mine in New Orleans does this from early spring until autumn, making for some interesting dinner conversation with friends. 



Thoughts on Southern Summers

I try my best to ensure that every detail in our displays is well thought out, well planned, and well researched.  Some themes are easier than others and the information literally jumps from the pages of history.  Sometimes, I'm not so lucky and usually begin to "burn out".  There are times...and themes that I just sit back and let it flow.  Southern Summers is just that kind of theme. 

I believe that I am one of just a few true Southern born and bred volunteers inside the WF.  While others have made "the South" home for many years, I have always called the South home. I've always thought of myself as a true Southern gentleman having been born and raised into a "good ol' Southern" family.  So, it comes as no surprise that I find this theme extremely effortless.  And, here's why...

Over the past 100 years (or, more), summertime traditions and lifestyle of Southerners hasn't changed all that much.  It truly must be the heat and humidity!  We move (and talk) a little slower...even more graceful, our skin seems to always glisten from the humidity, and our tempers are either sweet and docile or as violent as a summer thunderstorm.  Our forefathers of the last two centuries were no different.

Eating habits are lighter, fluid intake is greater.  Specific styles are maintained both personally and in the home.  We wear linen, seersucker, and fluid cotton...the lighter and more loose, the better.  Our homes take a turn by making everything effortless and as cool as we can.  Outside evening entertainment either poolside or lounging in the park is always preferred to sitting in a stuffy house.  And, just like that...we're in the lifestyle once lived by our grands and their grands. 

I feel a sense of nostalgia more in the summer than any other season.  Being barefoot...drinking my mother's incredibly sweet iced tea out of plastic cups...running through the sprinkler in the yard...having picnics...swimming at night...fresh strawberries in sugar.  More than memories, it's just what we did...what we do...during a Southern Summer. 

Now, I've found my "happy place"...time to kick off my shoes, sit back with a tall glass of sweet tea, and let the ideas flow.  I can't wait for you to see how this turns out...heck, I can't wait to see how this turns out!

Southern Summers...teaser!

We've added some new florals to complete the themed rooms.

Our "wedding belles" this year are from the early 1900s.



The third floor hall is dedicated to gentlemen at the turn of the century, thanks

to our local Brooks Brothers for donating forms to properly display these vintage

textiles and accessories.  Finally, the "men of the house" get into the limelight!

Southern Summers

June 6 - August 5

"Titanic Entry" by Elliott Hill Fontaine

I'm not sure if there were any Memphis connections to the sinking of Titanic, but the impact was felt globally within days.  And, Memphis was certainly no exception.  One of the most cherished pieces in WF's permanent collection is that of Elliott Fontaine's diary.  I've mentioned it several times in previous posts.  The special significance is that the diary was kept during the year 1912.  Below is an image of his entry about the Titanic. 

"The papers today publish an account of the White Star SS. Titanic, which in it's maiden voyage collided with an iceberg off Newfoundland sinking within four hours, and carrying down more than thirteen hundred of it's two thousand passengers."

Titanic

These past few days have brought a plethora of coverage surrounding the S.S. White Star Titanic that sank 100 years ago after a collision with an iceberg off the coast of Newfoundland.  I see the blow by blow of the sinking.  I see endless shots of the ship's skeleton beneath the deep water.  But, one thing that I haven't seen alot of is the interior of the ship.  The design, the details, the absolute grandeur and epic beauty of the spaces inside the Titanic.  Here are a few shots of several spaces that I found thumbing around some other historical blogs and sites.  Some of the pictures eerily look like they had been taken just yesterday. 

 The iconic Grand Staircase...emptied into lounge adjacent to dining room

The Cafe Parisien...authentic French menu and music

Gymnasium...a bit primitive, also included a spa

 First class lounge...gathering place before formal meals

Smokeroom...a retreat for the gentlemen aboard

The Veranda...for afternoon tea...a favorite of Mollie Brown

Inside the WF: Floors and Windows

Recently, our floors and windows got some much needed attention.  After many, MANY years of green carpet, the carriage house floors were updated with stained concrete floors.  The end results are fantastic.  The update of the floors was preceded by the interior window sills and panes being painted inside the mansion.  While the handy work isn't visible in most of the rooms, the need for the paint job was very important.  It also gave the opportunity for some spring cleaning.  Below are a few pictures of the floors in the center room of the carriage house in different stages and our very fragile lace curtains being soaked and cleaned by board members Peggy Lovell, Jane Work, and Karen Ralston!  Thank you ladies for rinsing out, what I'm sure resembled the muddy waters of the Mighty Mississippii...or worse, the Gayoso Bayou!



Easter bunny smiles and puppy dog kisses...

Saturday, March 31st marked the fourth annual egg hunt at the WF!  Mr. Bunny was on hand for photo ops and puppies galore were on hand eagerly awaiting belly rubs and ear scratches.  The weather couldn't have been more beatiful for all the fun crafts and games that were planned.  Empty baskets left full along with lots of happy smiles.  Below are a few pictures from that sun-shiney morning!

President of APTA Memphis Chapter, Mrs. Peggy Lovell and Mr. Bunny (who is a close personal friend of Dr. Lovell...and approves this picture)

APTA board member, Mrs. Karen Ralston and Mr. Bunny.  Mrs. Ralston is also our textiles director and volunteers each year for the egg hunt.

 Many happy faces posing with Mr. Bunny.  Fun and games ensued after photo ops with lots of mommies and daddies in tow.

 APTA board treasurers, Mrs. Pera and Mrs. Fite setting up mid-morning snacks under the wisteria arbor.

 Puppies, puppies, puppies...among the laughter of children the YAPPING of excited puppies!

 

SPEAKEASY: 1920's - Men's Fashion

SPEAKEASY: 1920's Style Makeup Tutorial

Several "flapper" friends have sent me questions about how they should dress for the Speakeasy next Saturday night.  I thought I would start here with the make up.  Most "flappers" I know have an abundance of brushes, tools, and makeup in their vanities...so this won't be a problem.  The hair accessories can only be limited by the wildest imagination.  My personal favorite is no doubt Mandy Sue's flowers...that good ol' Southern belle could put a cactus in her hair and it would look fantastic.  Amanda has used everything from flowers to feathers in her hair, and I just can't wait to see what she has in store for us this year.

For those of you who don't know what's going on...

Woodruff-Fontaine House

2nd Annual Spring benefit

 "SPEAKEASY"

Saturday, March 31

7-11PM

$20 at door

Art photography by Heather Simmons and Karen Auburger

Silent auction with lovely, intoxicating items

Signature "Speakeasy style" beverages and canapes

Cocktail or period dress is encouraged and anticipated

Speakeasy: Prohibition..."not your cup of tea"

I just assume that everyone is fascinated by details in history, especially those that affected social customs.  With the anticipation of WF's Speakeasy event, more and more questions come to light.  Some questions I have an immediate answer for...some more simple than others.  There are questions, however, that beg for specific information.  Nothing delights me more than to research our past to enlighten the present and inspire the future.  So here's a little information surrounding the question, "When did Prohibition in the United States begin and end?"

The simple answer is between 1919 (when a ban on alcohol manufacturing, sale, and transportation was mandated by the 18th Amendment of the Constitution of the United States) and 1933 (Dec. 5, when the ratification of the 21st Amendment repealed the 18th Amendment...lifting the ban).

But, the movement behind this historic period began much earlier.  The American Temperance Society formed in 1826, with the majority of membership being rural middle-class women.  These women believed that alcohol was disruptive and a threat to the home and family.  It wasn't long before religious leaders involved themselves...mostly protestant leaders who believed to be the moral majority.  Many preachers of the period equated the sale of liquor to that of prostitution! 

After the Civil War, the Prohibition party formed in 1869 followed in 1873 by the Women's Christian Temperance Union, both organizations assisted with the prohibition of alcohol through the late 19th century.  But, it wasn't until 1881 that Kansas became the first state to outlaw alcohol flat out in the state's constitution.  This came with the strong and radical force of Carrie Nation.  She formed and led a group of Christian moralists, mostly women, called the Carrie Nation Prohibition Group.  Members would enter saloons and bars to taunt owners and patrons, often singing hymns and praying loudly.  This radical protesting soon fizzled out, but not before pulling down most of the southern states and influencing political leaders that ultimately led to the 18th amendment.  Years later, the 21st amendment overturned the prohibition of alcohol...bringing an end to the speakeasy (which is a shame, because everyone enjoys being "bad" at least once in a while).

This is what I believe to be the beginning in the United States, in regards to prohibition.  Of course, there is a ton of information that mixes with these facts.  In my opinion,  Prohibition began as a loosely Biblical and largely moralist movement by middle-class Christian women...I guess it just wasn't their "cup of tea". 

Josephine says, "Save the date, sweetie pie!!"

It's that time of year again when we roll up our sleeves and push back to a time when cocktails were cool and jazz was hot!  WF's 2nd annual SPEAKEASY is Saturday, March 31 from 7-11PM.  $20 suggested donation at the door (plus, the password) will get you in.  We had such success with this particular benefit last year, the flappers and fedoras (aka planning committee) decided to up the ante. 

Local photographers Heather Simmons makes her WF debut and Karen Auburger returns, both with original art photography that will be for purchase.  They chose themes surrounding the era of prohibition...and have promised to knock your socks off!  A portion of the sales will go towards WF's preservation efforts.  If that isn't enough, a silent auction will be set up for bids until 9PM (or, so). 

Select vintage textiles and collections from the archives of the WF will be on display for one night only!  So, you won't want to miss that!

Of course, signature "period" cocktails will be served alongside canapes fit for a flapper!  And, vintage or cocktail attire is encouraged...and anticipated.  Last year, guests literally blew us away with their personal style.  Keep in touch with our FB page and the Daily Reminder for updates and inspiration to ensure you're the bee's knees this year!

Inside the WF: Using the Space!!

February 11th marked the anniversary of the "door that goes nowhere".  In celebration of this historic day for the mansion and to honor St. Valentine (of, course), WF hosted a concert in the drawing room!  It was a beautiful event in true turn of the century fashion.  A few of our guests even attended in very proper parlor attire for the evening.

Afterwards, a chocolate soiree was held downstairs in the root cellar as the perfect ending to a perfect evening.  Guests celebrated and stuffed themselves with all things chocolate. 

Above all details of the evening, the fact that an interior space of the museum was used.  In the past the dining room has been rented for "state dinners" as high dollar fundraisers and the formal parlor has been used as a "tea room" for ladies luncheons.  The concert was a unique venue that made use of the space as it was originally intended, to entertain the masses.  It truly was a beautiful evening, and quite nostalgic seeing chairs filling the room and the air of grace and propriety everyone felt.  The expressions, posture, and movements of every person changed through the course of the concert.  Guests may have come in clumsy and stumbling, but left looking like proper Victorian society...a true sight to behold!

 We look forward to many more opportunities to use the spaces at WF for which they were intended...to entertain and moreover to educate.  These social situations always give us a chance to put our best foot forward.  Coming to a museum, one expects to see collections and artifacts.  But, this isn't for every museum guest.  After the event I mingled and learned that some of our guests really prefer to BE a part of WF's history, not to simply look at it.  Going forward, I'm sure this will be a consideration for future events and fundraisers

If you have questions about tours or venue rentals, call the museum Wed-Sun, noon-4pm (901-526-1469)...we'll be delighted to assist you!

St. Valentine's Day

The modern St. Valentine's Day celebrations are said to have been derived from both ancient Christian and Roman tradition. As per one legend, the holiday has originated from the ancient Roman festival of Lupercalia, a fertility celebration that used to observed annually on February 15. But the rise of Christianity in Europe saw many pagan holidays being renamed for and dedicated to the early Christian martyrs. Lupercalia was no exception. In 496 AD, Pope Gelasius turned Lupercalia into a Christian feast day and set its observance a day earlier, on February 14. He proclaimed February 14 to be the feast day in honor of Saint Valentine, a third century Roman martyr. During this time, Claudius II, who believed marriage made men weak in battle, banned marriage for Roman soldiers under penalty of death. The compassionate Valentine performed secret marriages of soldiers in remote locations. Later, he was arrested and imprisoned. After attempting to convert Valentine to the Roman gods, Claudius II had him executed. It is believed that his martyr date is February 14, 270 A.D.

In 19th century America, St. Valentine's day was one of four holidays most widely celebrated.  It was during this time that the contemporary exchange of "valentine" gifts and notes was developed.  During this time, "valentines" were hand made...hand written...and most were hand delivered.  It is no surprise that parties began to pop up on this day...along with special sweetheart dances, teas, suppers...anything to celebrate this most lovely day.  Today, many of the traditions associated with this day are still celebrated.  Chocolates, candies, flowers, jewelry, and plenty of cards and notes are exchanged...and, in much the same manner as the Victorians.  So, on this day...St. Valentine's day...be sweet!

Inside the WF: The Door That Goes Nowhere Pt.2

Here are a few images from the "door that goes nowhere".  Some of the signatures look the same, as we assume that some of the gentlemen couldn't write and had their colleague do it for them. 

Among the many signatures, Canadians seemed to have made their mark on the WF.

"Heavy man of the job" was basically the maintenance man. 

"Now we have to stop for now it ist 12 o'clock" probably refers to a dinner or lunch break.

Mr. Beaudry no doubt made it possible to have the door hung in the first place...he fitted the door.

Inside the WF: The Door That Goes Nowhere

Entering through the front door of the WF lies a spacious entry hall.  I call it the "great" hall because of all the design details, history, and the sheer "it" factor.  The architecture of the home is classified as Second Empire French Victorian.  The consistent interior detail is that design elements are symmetrical.  Meaning, what there is on one side should be balanced on the other.  This is seen throughout the mansion with doors, windows, hearths, and furnishings.  But, nothing seems to scream "pretentious Victorian" like the north wall of the hall.  The north wall holds three doors.  The center door is the original back door that leads out to the "back porch".  The left door opens into the music room.  The right door isn't actually a door at all!!!  Of course, there's a frame and a door on it's hinges...but, the door goes absolutely nowhere.  The door was hung merely for aesthetics and for balance in keeping with symmetrical design. 

The real treasure is not that the door goes nowhere.  It's that inside the door are inscriptions, signatures, countries and cities of origin, and one date...February 11, 1871.  This is the date that the door was hung (and probably nailed shut.  The inscriptions are by the many laborers, builders, carpenters, and the like who built the mansion for Mr. Woodruff.  Following this post I will be uploading many close up images of a few of the names.  It's a fascinating piece of history that is hidden in plain sight.  This practice of signing doors was not uncommon, nor is it uncommon today.  My grandfather was a carpenter and helped to build an entire community.  He and his builders would sign the insides of walls or subflooring so as his work not be forgotten.  And, as it turns out, all the builders or carpenters I have hosted in the WF tell me that it's a tradition that is still honored by many, if not, all builders.

The next time you're in the WF, be sure to study the inside of the door that goes nowhere.

Inside the WF: Chocolat, Coffee, or Both?

In the last post, coffee pots and chocolat pots prove to be quite different.  However, by the turn of the century, innovation trumped style (sort of).  By the end of the 19th century many silver sets included two pots...one for tea and one for coffee or chocolat.  If, one could afford the luxury of a Limoges  porcelain chocolat set, it would pair nicely with the larger silver set and used at breakfast or after supper.  By the 20th century, the proper chocolat set gave way to a multi purpose set that could accommodate both coffee and chocolat. 

One of my personal favorites from the porcelain collection is this pale yellow and gold set.  This Limoges set belonged to the Fontaine family and is original to the mansion. The pot has been documented as a chocolat pot, but most of the details are like a coffee pot.  The long curved spout and the inside filter are both characteristics of a coffee pot.  However, the lid doesn't have a steam release, the cups and saucers are much smaller, and most obvious of all...no creamer or sugar bowl.  So, weighing the details and historical documentation...chocolat set, it is!

Inside the WF: Chocolate Pots and Coffee Pots

 

Visitors to the museum may find a "theme" running from room to room.  Some of our prized porcelain pieces grace tables and nooks and are met with a few questions.  Most guests will assume that all of these sets are "tea sets"...they are not.  In fact, most of the pieces that you see are coffee and chocolate sets.  The question we hear is, "What's the difference?".  Above are two examples that are on display inside the museum.  The example on the left is a chocolate pot and the example on the right is a coffee pot. 

It is difficult to tell the difference between a coffee pot and a chocolate pot. The two features to look at are the spout on the exterior of the pot and the inside of the spout. Coffee pot spouts are typically long and sometimes arched. A chocolate pot has a fairly short spout. The inside of a coffee pot just before the spout typically has a filter (a small partition with holes) that keeps grounds from getting into the cup. A chocolate pot would not have the filter. Sets normally included a pot, cups, and many times matching saucers, trays. These sets are still manufactured today. The antique and vintage pieces have become quite collectible and valuable.