Tea has been with us from ancient times and it is still one of our favorite beverages. We drink more of it than all other beverages except water. Legend says that it was discovered in China around the year 2700BC and its use spread over Europe. The tradition of afternoon tea was began in England in the early 1800's and remains a tradition there to this day. For more tea history you can go to Twinings of London and The history of tea or look at my Tea History links for more sites with the history of tea.
Throughout history there have been some very interesting facts about tea. For a more concise list of tidbits, visit my Tea Trivia page.
In England it became fashionable to take afternoon tea. One day in the early 1800's, Anna, the 7th Duchess of Bedford to ward off hunger pangs until dinner time decided she would have tea and a light snack around 4 pm, and so afternoon tea got its start. Queen Victoria decided to adopt the practice and taking afternoon tea became quite popular. It didn't take long for afternoon tea to become a tradition and the variety of delicacies that have been served with tea has grown tremendously. To discover some traditional and maybe even some new recipes for tea thyme food you can browse my Tea Recipe page, or visit some sites on my Tea Links page.
As tea became a very expensive commodity due to the high taxation imposed on it, tea time became steeped in ritual and ceremony. Ladies of the house kept it locked away only sharing it with the most special guests and on very important occassions. They often wore the key to the tea caddy on their belt. Victorian tea was a celebration of these rituals. Visit my Victorian tea page and enjoy the social ceremony and traditions of Victorian tea.
Because the tea ceremony became such a social engagement teahouses and tea gardens sprang up everywhere. Unlike the coffee and smoke houses of this era in which only men were welcome, teahouses and tea gardens were frequented by both men and women. Tea houses have become popular once again as people search for the quintessential cup of tea and the tradition of a simpler more refined past. For links to teahouse directories and local teahouses(Pacific Northwest) see my Teahouses page.
We still enjoy the rituals of tea thyme whether it be a traditional occasion with lace and china or an informal gathering of friends. It has always been a fun time for children to enjoy and a wonderful way to teach ettiquette. My Tea Parties page includes a variety of ideas for formal and non-traditional teas, as well as childrens parties.
People from all stations in life enjoy taking tea. Many notable personalities have left us with endearing as well as amusing quotes regarding this treasured drink. I have shared some of my favorites on my Tea Quotes page. One of my very favorites is not a quote but is an old gaelic blessing.
~May you always be blessed
With walls for the wind, A roof for the rain,
A warm cup of tea by the fire--
Laughter to cheer you, Those you love near you
And all that your heart might desire.
