Annual Doll & Tea event on May 3 at Hetfield House in Mountainside

MOUNTAINSIDE – The Mountainside Restoration Committee will host its annual Tea event on Sunday, May 3, with seatings at 1 and 2:30 p.m. at the historic Deacon Andrew Hetfield House.

For the past 8 years, a tea event has become an annual tradition for many who enjoy a civilized afternoon of fine tea. Last year, the event was enhanced by the addition of dolls.

Once again, guests, young and old, are encouraged to bring their dolls – whether new dolls or dolls that have been loved for a long time.

Back by popular demand, doll expert, Jonathan Green will be attending to share his expansive knowledge of doll history along with his collection of special dolls. He will also give appraisals of guests’ dolls.

Green is a well-known lecturer, collector, and author on the subject of dolls.  As an authority on Raggedy Ann and Andy, he has appeared on the Today Show, Midday Live with Bill Boggs, and Joan Lunden’s “Mother’s Day.”

Green was the doll expert in residence at FAO Schwarz and worked for the Käthe Kruse Doll Company.  He currently represents the German doll firm Krahmer Puppen in the USA.  Green is a member of the United Federation of Doll Clubs.

In addition, hand-made doll clothes, crafted by Brenda Ayres, will be available for sale. This large selection of unique and beautiful doll ensembles are lovingly crafted and made to fit American Girl sized dolls.

Every generation will enjoy this event which will feature hot & iced tea, lemonade, tea sandwiches and sweets. A spectacular doll house and doll will be auctioned off, as well.

Visitors are encouraged to dress for a tea party as there will be an opportunity to have photos taken in a Victorian Doll & Tea setting.

The 18th century historic Hetfield House provides the perfect setting for enjoying an afternoon of high tea in the company of some very special new and antique “friends” while learning the lore of dolls. It’s a perfect afternoon to catch up with old friends, bond with family or just enjoy the setting.

Over the years, this event has become popular with mothers & grandparents bringing their little girls, some with their American Girl Dolls, and they have a lovely time.

Because of the anticipated popularity of this event, reservations are suggested. Call 908-789-9420 or email [email protected] for reservations and state your preferred seating time at 1 or 2:30 p.m., number of guests, name and phone # and email address. A donation of $5 per person would be appreciated at the door. Tours of the historic Deacon Andrew Hetfield House will be conducted during the event

The Hetfield House is located at Constitution Plaza on Watchung Ave. off Birch Hill Rd. and adjacent to Mountainside Public Library.

The Mountainside Restoration Committee is a committee of volunteers governed by the Borough of Mountainside whose purpose is to restore and maintain the Deacon Andrew Hetfield House and Levi Cory House and collect and save historic information and items from destruction. For further information, please call (908)789-9420; or visit www.mountainsidehistory.org