"The Origin and Evolution of Afternoon Tea"


      Afternoon Tea’s ancestry dates back to 1840 when Anna, The 7th Duchess of Bedford was spending the day in her Belvoir Castle, as she usually did, when she began feeling “peckish” between her two main meals of the day, breakfast and dinner. 
      Wanting a little something to satisfy her until “high tea,” or the main evening meal, she requested her maid to bring her a tray of tea, bread and butter, and cakes. She knew this light repast would alleviate the sinking feeling she was experiencing. 
      The Duchess enjoyed her afternoon refreshments so much that she made it a daily tradition and began to invite friends to the Castle to delight in the treats with her. Soon, other hostesses of English high society imitated The Duchess and invited their friends to Afternoon Tea, usually between 4:00 and 5:00 pm. 
      In Victorian England, Afternoon Tea was more of a social gathering than a meal. It was a time when one could establish oneself in society with appropriate social graces and interactions with friends. Even the food served was light and delicate to accommodate conversation with dainty mouthfuls. Tea was offered with finger sandwiches, small cakes and scones. 
      Afternoon Tea is not to be confused with High Tea, as it often is in today’s standards. High Tea has been translated to mean a more formal occasion, with Afternoon Tea being casual. In reality, High Tea was often the evening meal served between 7:00 and 8:00 pm. It was much more substantial and included meat, bread, pickles, cakes, fruit and tea. It debuted during the Industrial Revolution when tired workers came home late from a long, arduous day on the job. And sometimes it was a special occasion held during the day that centered around a sports event such as archery or croquet. 
      It is believed that the term “High Tea” evolved from the family sitting down to their evening meal at a high table. “Afternoon Tea” was usually taken at a low table with guests gathered around in lounge chairs socializing in the afternoon. 
      Whatever your preference, we owe a debt of gratitude to Anna, The 7th Duchess of Bedford for beginning a most delightful and delicious tradition. Cheers!


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