Victoriana Lady Estelle

End of the summer picnic

I just love an old fashion style picnic, so I invited my friend to my favorite park to have one.

Everyone who joined the picnic kindly brought their blankets and baskets fulled with food, (non alcoholic drinks, plates, tea cups and spoons,

The dress code for the picnic was
Victorian, Edwardian, Steampunk, Elegant Lolita, Romantic Gothic and of cause 21st century.

We played games.

We were also entertained by music playing on the phonograph. How delightful and unique.

The weather was perfect and I could not have asked for anything better.

A Great transformation.

I enjoy my role as the great Victorian lady and teaching etiquette to young ladies at the historic Hearthside House Museum

This month, we at Hearthside transform our museum and grounds into the 1904 Worlds Fair.
It was a lot of work for months. We wanted to show what took place at this historic event.
We, the docents and staff took on amazing transformations to take you back in time.

I was asked to take on a challenge and portray a great African American man in history. He was Doc. William Key.

Preparing for my interpretation of Dr William Key

It was the first time in my reenactment days, have I ever portrayed a gentleman. It was quite a challenge and interesting.
It was not easy. The mustache kept getting in my mouth when I talked. I kept wanting to pose like, Lady Estelle when folks wanted to take my photo. I did not know what to do with my hands. But all in all, it was a lots of fun.

A self-trained veterinarian, “Dr.” William Key was born a slave in 1833. Even as a child Bill was recognized for having extraordinary horse whispering and animal healing skills – using only kindness and no force.
Read more about the Doc and his amazing horse, Beautifull JIM.
http://www.beautifuljimkey.com/history.htm

Doc and Beautiful Jim was one of the main attractions at the 1904 St. Louis Worlds Fair.

It was also a big attraction at Hearthside's 1904 World's Fair.

He is the smartest house in the world. He can write, spell, knows colors and can count money.

He proformed for the children and his true history amazed the adults.

I was honored to have been able to teach such a beautiful and true story to so many interested people.

The American Girl Doll Tea 2015

The Annual American Girl Doll Tea at Hearthside was again a huge success.

I gave at lessons on tea etiquette and proper manners in public.

What a wonderful way the end the month of March!

Memorial Day Parade in Lincoln, RI

It was a lovely warm Monday morning in May, 2015. Our Memorial Day parade went off as planned.
My grand daughter had been marching with me, in the parade ever since she was 7 years old. She is now 11.
We are reminding the young onlookers about the upcoming American Girl Doll Tea Party next weekend, on May 30 and the 31.

We, at the Hearthside House Museum, are also preparing for our upcoming event " The 1904 World Fair"

In July, on Sunday, the 12th.

At the Hearthside House Museum

It turned out to be a day to remember! Happy Memorial Day!

A New Found Friend!

Nice to meet you, Estelle (virtually). I was so happy to find your blog and site! I am ALSO a former Harlem School of Dance student. I've worked professionally on stage and I am now a playwright and screenwriter...who happens to LOVE Victorian and Edwardian dress and history (see my blog http://victoriaedward.blogspot.com/2014/02/in-my-own-image.html) I have been looking for balls, dances, picnics, teas and events to wear my Edwradian lawn dress, and the new Worth reproduction bustle gown that I just purchased. Also interested in period dance events and classes that aren't too far from NYC. California seems to be more on the ball when it comes to period events.

Victoria and Edward: Black NY and London, 1837-1910: IN MY OWN IMAGE: I have always liked cosplay and to dress in period costume. From a little girl dressing extravagantly every Halloween, to my early caree...

Downton Abbey Tea at Hearthside House

On a lovely sunny, warm and beautiful Saturday afternoon, the guest arrived at the historic Hearthside House to be greeted by the family and staff (Downton Abbey Style).