What is Afternoon Tea

Teatime thoughts April 7th

So? How did afternoon tea with the little people go? Our home has had some changes due to the covid-19 pandemic. We are attempting to find a new routine, the usual epp and flow is disrupted. I am learning that my life is second again as when I was raising my own children. With my grand daughter here and her momma, my daughter, with us because she has a cast on her foot. Our house has turned upside down.

I was thinking while I sat quietly in my window that perhaps if you could share with the little folks the history of afternoon tea they might enjoy that. So here is a brief summary of what I have learned so far about the history of afternoon tea.

What is Afternoon Tea?

Afternoon tea is a mid-day light meal made up of dainty savories, (also known as finger sandwiches), scones, and sweets.

The idea started in the 1840s in England by Anna, the seventh Duchess of Bedford. In the late afternoon, around 4PM, the Duchess would get hungry but she didn’t want a full meal since dinner was just four hours away at 8PM.

She started with a small snack with tea but eventually it developed into what we know it today with small bites of tea sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and sweets.

The concept of afternoon tea grew once she started inviting friends over and it became a social gathering for women in the wealthy social class.

Today, afternoon tea has evolved into a set meal consisting three courses of savories, scones, and sweets to be enjoyed by all as an occasional luxury.

Please do post your photos of you enjoying afternoon tea with your family.

I would love to see them.

Take care                                                                                                                                                       

 Joanne