St. Monica Guild of Trinity Episcopal Church in Pass Christian, MS, announces news of their 88th Silver Valentine Tea.
The tea will be held on Friday, February 9th from 3 to 5 PM at 1001 East Beach Blvd., in Pass Christian at the home of Lynn Gildersleeve. This historic residence overlooks the Gulf of Mexico and has been an important historical landmark for over 150 years; it also was featured in the recent TV Movie, "Christmas in Mississippi” .
The Silver Tea is a fundraiser given to support the many ministries of Trinity Episcopal Church: The Boys and Girls Club, Christian Concern Ministries and the PC Food Bank, Gone Fishing ministries, Mercy Flight Southeast- who provides free air transportation to those who needing medical treatment in out of state hospitals and facilities, Wilmer Hall Children’s home and Missionary work in Chile. There is no charge to attend the tea, however donations are requested and appreciated. All monies collected will be given to charity. Entrance to Tea parking is available on East Beach Blvd. in front of the residence as well as behind the house from the entrance on Second Street where a sign will identify parking. Courtesy shuttle carts will be available to transport visitors to the residence from the parking areas.
The house was built by architect John Henderson of Henderson Point prior to the Civil War. It was the first train station in Pass Christian, as the railroad used to run down the beach prior to it being moved behind second street. It was used as a camp ground for Civil War Soldiers and was a working farm with full stables and chickens. It has been shown and enjoyed by many on several tours of Pass Christian homes. The home was severely damaged from Katrina but has been restored. Most of the historic information and books were lost to the storm as well as family pictures, and memories but one historic sketch of the house remained thus helping with restoration. Of note, the cottage/servant’s quarters were untouched, as was the stable/ garage. The Gildersleeve’s purchased the home right after Camille from the Munstead family and it became their summer home to the present.
The Bill of Fare of the Silver Tea will consist of sweet and savory homemade treats, coffee and tea, as well as wine. We invite all Coast residents, tourists and those interested to join us on Friday, February 9th for a wonderful afternoon. In an effort to protect the floors, please do not wear spike heels. We look forward to a large turnout.
For more information call Bonnie St. Paul at 228-222-3165 (home), or email bonniestpaul@gmail.com.
