Tea time origins explored at Redlands retirement community

REDLANDS - Tea was the topic of conversation at a high tea sponsored by Mission Commons on Saturday afternoon.

About 60 people attended the event - some dressed for the occasion with hats and accessories - to learn more about the history of the beverage and the food that goes with it.

Lee Hanna, a transplanted Oklahoman who now lives at the retirement community, switched her persona and attitude to portray "Hazel, the Tea Wench from London," and told the origins and traditions of tea during a light-hearted, yet well-researched presentation.

"I've been doing this for many years," said Hanna. "It's just a gift I like to give to people to enjoy."

When tea shops first opened in London, they were for men only

Mission Commons sponsored a high tea on Saturday which was open to residents of the retirement community and the public. (Kristina Hernandez/Staff)

and it wasn't until the 1800s that women began practicing afternoon tea in their homes.

Tea houses followed, allowing women to dine in the establishments and experience what they were missing.

Being able to sit and enjoy a cup of tea has sort of become a thing of the past for many, but in recent years, Hanna said, people have been taking more advantage of the relaxing effects and social experiences the drink can bring to many.

"You're seeing more and more tea houses opening up," she said. "We have one just over here locally. And I think the coffee/tea houses have been very popular (because) it's more slower paced, more gracious setting...brings people together where they can communicate.

"And with the shallow communication with the digital stuff now, it gives a face-to-face chance for people to communicate" she said.

The event was open to residents at Mission Commons, as well as members of the community.

Event coordinators hoped to attract locals to the grounds of the retirement community and visit with some its residents, said Jolene Shannon, a lead manager for Mission Commons.

"Usually we'll put events in the paper and invite the community to come join us and just see what we have to offer. And also we don't do (events) without inviting our residents," she said.

Prior to the tea, Hanna - in character - talked with residents, inviting them personally to the tea. She also created invitations and spoke to interested parties outside of her home.

Shannon said Mission Commons hopes to host a similar event annually, or for as long as Hanna is around.

"We would love (the community) to come in and experience a high tea like the one we did today," she said.

Mission Commons is at 10 Terracina Blvd.

For more information, visit missioncommons.com or call 909-435-4873.

Reach Kristina via email, call her at 909-793-3221, or on Twitter @TheFactsKris

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