Colonial Chocolate Featured in A Patriot ChocolTEA

In celebration of our country's 250th anniversary, Lincoln's Hearthside Museum's annual Afternoon Tea takes a different twist this year.  On Saturday afternoon, May 9th, A Patriot ChocolTEA will be held at the historic Butterfly Mill event space, across from the Hearthside Museum.  The event features a Colonial experience in all things chocolate, from bean to beverage and more.  

Chocolate has a very involved history with the birth of the United States. It became the most popular beverage as a substitute for tea and became a symbol of American resistance against British taxation.

An engaging demonstration of the traditional 18th century methods used to transform the humble cacao bean into rich, indulgent chocolate will be given by Robert Lecce, owner of The Pewter Pot Chocolate Shop.  The presentation includes learning about the origins of chocolate and its important role in the American colonies during the Revolution.  Just as the colonists did, guests will enjoy the treasured delicacy of chocolate through thick Colonial hot chocolate, as well as tea which is made from the shell of cacao beans, paired with chocolate treats for a delectable experience.  Adding to the Colonial presentation will be Hearthside's volunteers in period attire serving the refreshments, along with period music, raffle, prizes, and goods to buy.  It's a fun and memorable experience to share with family on Mother's Day weekend, or with friends.

The event is a fundraiser for the nonprofit all-volunteer Friends of Hearthside, celebrating its' 25th anniversary of preserving Great Road's history including Hearthside House (1810), Hannaway Blacksmith Shop (1880), Pullen's Corner Schoolhouse (1850) and Moffett Mill (1812). 

Tickets for The Patriot ChocolTEA are available in advance only through hearthsidehouse.org.  Purchase by May 5th.  The event is being held at Stephen Hopkins Smith's Butterfly Mill (c.1812), built at the same time he was having Hearthside constructed.  It is located at 700 Great Road, across from Hearthside.