Past joins the present at 37th Annual Camellia Tea

Ever wonder what things were like in the “olden days” in Clayton?

Come take tea with descendants of the town’s pioneering families at the Clayton Historical Society’s 37th Annual Camellia Tea and find out first-hand.

The annual event began in 1977 when a few “old timers” and several long-time residents reunited at a home on Morgan Territory Road to share memories and a love of Clayton. Dozens of camellias were in bloom along the home’s driveway set against the rugged backdrop of North Peak, and a tradition was born.

By 1979, the two small Victorians downtown that were built in 1869 were joined to make one building. The two smaller houses had belonged to Joel Clayton, founder of the town, and became a home for the Clayton Museum. That year, the Clayton Historical Society hosted the 3rd Annual Camellia Tea in the new museum. Today, old-timers and newcomers come together to continue sharing memories at the annual Camellia Tea.

Although founded in 1867, Clayton has only been a legal city since 1964. To help celebrate Clayton’s 50th anniversary of incorporation, the city’s first mayor, Bob Hoyer, the current mayor, Hank Stratford and several other past mayors will be on hand at the Camellia Tea to greet visitors and pour.

The public is cordially invited to this free event to take tea and explore the museum. The current exhibit, “Our Town,” celebrates Clayton through the years.

The Camellia Tea is Feb. 16 from 1-4 p.m., at 6101 Main Street, Clayton.

The museum’s normal hours are 2 to 4 p.m. on Wednesdays and Sundays. The Clayton Museum is run by volunteers and members of the Clayton Historical Society. Although admission is free, donations are gratefully accepted.

For more information, call 672-0240 or go to claytonhistory.org.