The Morris County Park Commission presents the annual “Matilda’s Tea” at The Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morris Township on Saturday, March 11. Each year, the event honors the life of the former owner of The Frelinghuysen mansion, Matilda Frelinghuysen, by exploring different aspects of her life in Morristown, circa 1900.
On March 11, from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., celebrate Matilda by exploring the art of millinery, or hat-making. You will create a fabulous fascinator, just like the ones that England’s Princess Kate Middleton wears. Bring your favorite young person to the tea to design your own period headpiece, which you can take home.
Did you know that when Matilda lived at the mansion, ladies did not leave the house without a hat?
Choose feathers, beads, sparkles or tulle. Adults and children alike create a custom-made fascinator they can enjoy forever.
Afterwards, enjoy a delicious light tea and an illustrated talk on the history of women’s millinery. Learn how the bigger-is-better hat craze of the early 20th century helped launch the environmental movement of today.
Space is limited and preregistration is required. Matilda’s Tea is $25 per person and is appropriate for children ages six and up.
For more information, registration, and directions to The Frelinghuysen Arboretum in Morris Township, visit, arboretumfriends.org or call 973.326.7603.
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The Morris County Park Commission features one of the region’s best park systems in the state of New Jersey. It currently protects and maintains 18,730 acres at 38 distinct sites plus offers a year-round calendar of events and activities for all to enjoy.