High Tea | Culinary Historians of ChicagoCulinary Historians of Chicago

Below Stairs: A Servants Life in Early 20th Century England
Guest Speaker Leslie Goddard
in Character as Margaret Powell

Maid pouring afternoon tea

What was life really like for the servants who worked below stairs in the era of Downton Abbey? While we enjoy an ‘upstairs’ tea, literary dramatist Leslie Goddard will take us ‘downstairs’ to experience life below stairs in the stately homes of early 20th century England. Goddard will portray British domestic servant Margaret Powell whose 1968 book Below Stairs was among the inspirations for the popular television series Downtown Abbey and directly inspired the 1970s series Upstairs, Downstairs.

Leslie Goddard earned a Ph.D. from Northwestern University, specializing in U.S. cultural history, American studies, and women’s history. She also holds both a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in theater. An award winning scholar, Leslie Goddard is executive director of the Graue Mill and Museum. Goddard authored Remembering Marshall Fields and Chicago’s Sweet Candy History.

Our tables seat 10 guests. We will do our very best to arrange you are seated with your friends. Information on seating is available after purchase.

A boutique will feature vintage hats, jewelry and accessories.

Questions? GreaterMidwestFoodways@gmail.com

High Tea Menu

First Course
Scottish Smoked Salmon Pinwheels
Beef Tenderloin Triangles
Roast Turkey Triangles
Cucumber & Watercress Leaves
Egg Salad Rounds
Creamed Avocado & Crab Flowers
Open-Faced Ham & Asparagus Rounds
Open-Faced Roquefort & Pear Slices

Sandwiches