Have you ever imagined having tea with Queen Victoria? Now just might be your chance. On Saturday, September 24th the women of St. Mark’s Episcopal Church, 200 Main St., Palatka, Florida, 32177 will host “Tea With The Queen”. This will be in conjunction with the annual “Occupation of Palatka” and will occur from 2:00 – 4:00 PM. At that time members of the public and reenactors are invited to enjoy a Victorian style tea in the Parish Hall.

In 1864 Union troops occupied the city of Palatka and used “Sunny Point” (today known as the Bronson-Mulholland house) at 100 Madison St. as a lookout for Confederate blockade runners. Located across the street from the Bronson- Mulholland House St. Mark’s Episcopal Church was consecrated in 1857 and served the general public as well as Union soldiers during the conflict.

 Although Queen Victoria was England’s ruling monarch in 1864, she never visited Palatka, Florida. The tea is a whimsical fundraiser for the Episcopal Church Women and provides tea, delectable cakes, scones, and other tasty treats.  While dining guests may also enjoy music performed by local musicians, meet period reenactors as well as her majesty the Queen, and take a tour of the historic parish. During your tour you will hear the stories of how the church was creatively used and survived the war.

Historic dress or costumes are not required to attend but tickets are required. Tickets may be purchased in advance for $15.00 each in one of the following three ways: 1) through Ticket Spice.com; 2) from St Mark’s Episcopal church office (phone 386 328 1474); or 3) from Nancy Phelps (phone 386 546 0224). Tickets may also be purchased at the door on September 24th. There will be two seatings for this event. The first seating is at 2:15 and the second at 3:15. You will need to reserve your seating time when you purchase your ticket.

Why not take a stroll through beautiful downtown Palatka? Bring your friends and family and enjoy a historic visit at the Occupation encampment and Tea With The Queen. We hope to see you there.