IN Sewickley Area Spring 2014 | Page 36

Tea Artfully Done at The Christy House Local ladies have found a way to enjoy gracious living while helping others to live graciously. by Pamela Palongue O ver the course of its storied history, tea has served as a source of medicine, a symbol of social class, and even as a catalyst for rebellion. At the beginning of the 18th century, tea merchant Thomas Twining opened the first public tea house on the Strand in London which started a centuries-long tradition. Tea salons sprang up in England and eventually America, where fine teas could be consumed in the presence of elegant surroundings. 34 724.942.0940 TO ADVERTISE | Sewickley Area Most would agree; there’s nothing quite as wonderful as taking a soothing cup of tea in a graceful drawing room – unless it would be to help others in the community while you’re doing it. This was the idea behind the first ladies group of St. Stephen’s Church who decided 36 years ago to convert the one-time rectory into a tea house with the proceeds supporting various church ministries. The unique fundraising model has proven to be a success for St. Stephen’s and an enchanting pastime for all those who have visited the Christy House. The sprawling mansion, furnished with Victorian décor and beautiful landscaping, was built in 1862. George H. Christy lived in the home with his wife Sarah and their many children. Christy was a patent attorney who was often retained by George Westinghouse for his many entrepreneurial pursuits. The large, friendly structure, which stands at 403 Frederick Avenue, later became a rectory and was considered for demolition after the last priest moved out several decades later. The possible expansion of the church led church leaders to consider razing the property for more space. Instead, some forward-thinking ladies envisioned a new life