Evening of Victorian Cinema
A special thank you to the Margaret R. Grundy Library who shared their facilities and time with us during this autumn last in 2010 and made this wonderful series possible.
In collaboration with the Grundy Library, the DVLGS held this two-night program which was open to the public at no charge and guests came to watch two of the many wonderful films that are set in the Victorian period. While enjoying treats like popcorn, old-fashioned root beer, hot tea, lemon bars, and cranberry almond scones- guests had the chance to travel back in time for an evening to explore the life of Queen Victoria and Leo Tolstoy's dramatic series.
The greatest joy was in seeing the reactions of movie-goers who were filled with delight at the conclusion of each film.
"When we boarded the train our outfits were still in style!"
Wilst the Delaware Valley suffered terrible storming nearly the entire week preceding our excursion, mother nature was on our side once again parted the storm clouds just in time for our journey!
We couldn't have asked for more ideal weather. With the sun shining in a cerulean blue sky and a crisp autumn breeze in the air, we boarded the parlor car on the New Hope and Ivyland Railroad for a relaxing trip.
In addition to the tranquil scenery, along wayside of the tracks we had the chance to view what remained of a factory where once the tile used in the contruction of the Empire State Building had been manfuctured; as well as a colonial farmhouse that had been part of the underground railroad!
After our return to New Hope we crossed the tumultuous muddy waters of a storm-raged Delaware River. Logs and other debris roared past in a thunder like that of a roaring rapids. In Lambertville, New Jersey we enjoyed a wonderful lunch at the Lambertville Station Inn, a beautiful former railway station-turned eating establishmen and spend the remainder of the afternoon strolling through the historic shops in our travel attire. Many a curious face looked on. How fun it was to explain why we were dressed up and see how fascinated they were to know groups like our exist!
A most sincere thank you to my friends who joined me to make the day what it was. Your participation in the group is what makes the DVLGS possible! For those who could not be with us, hopefully next year you will be able to join in as this was such a fun and memorable day!
2010 New Hope & Ivyland Railroad Excursion
2010 Victorian House Tour and Picnic
On 22 May, the Grundy Mansion received the first guests who were clad in proper Victorian garb that the home has received in over one-hundred years. Guests reveled over the custom woodwork featured throughout the home and tasteful decor that the family acquired from around the world to enjoy many years ago. Margaret's bedroom overlooking the Delaware River was a favourite among the ladies who were fascinated by her collection of grooming implements as well as the faux bamboo bedroom set the family purchased at the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition in 1876. The home, once again bustling with activity, was no match for the festivities taking place down below in the back yard.
While the former home of Senator Joesph Grundy and his family has ben receiving guests from around the world since its debut as a museum over thirty years ago, the true magic occurred on the grounds behind the home which now serve guests to the Margaret R. Grundy Library.
Having once overlooked Burlington Island Amusement Park at the turn of the century, the grounds likely have not been used to such capacity since those bygone days.
Guests served themselves buffet style from a table serving Victorian style picnic-fare like cucumber mint tea sandwiches, salads, and lavender lemonade.
The grounds were perfect for such an event. The breezes off the river and shade of the towering trees; which shaded the Grundy family on warm days, saved guests from the heat of the early summer day. The plush green lawns provided a perfect retreat for those wishing to sit out on the croquet match.
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