Looking for a delightful way to celebrate Valentine’s Day?
The Western Illinois Museum warmly invites you to Cupid’s Tea, a family-friendly drop-in event where you can craft a Victorian-era-inspired valentine, enjoy a cup of tea, and be serenaded by live music.
Join us on Sunday, February 9th, from 1:30 to 4:00 pm at the Western Illinois Museum for an afternoon of Valentine-themed crafting. Perfect for school-age children and adults alike, especially those who love making handmade gifts, this event has a suggested $5 donation at the door.
Discover the charm of Victorian valentines!
The tradition of exchanging valentines became popular in the Victorian era, featuring materials like lace, ribbon, seashells, seeds, and silk thread. With the expansion of the postal service and affordable printed images, the custom of sending heartfelt (and occasionally humorous) messages flourished.
Drop in anytime during the event to create your own pocket Valentine or puzzle purse Valentine. Museum volunteers will guide you through the process, and you’ll have access to a variety of materials to decorate your creation just like a true Victorian.
Adding to the experience
Our re-enactors, Mrs. Bath and Mrs. Chu, will share fascinating stories about the history of this “sitting room” craft and its evolution into today’s Valentine’s Day traditions. While you craft, enjoy a warm cup of tea served by our re-enactors in proper Victorian style, accompanied by live music from Sweet Milk & Peaches.
Hailing from Wisconsin, the husband-and-wife duo Jesse Downs and Liz Volz perform a mix of traditional old-time music and original songs, including jigs and schottisches. Popular in Victorian-era ballrooms and part of the Bohemian folk dance craze, this music is now part of the folk genre. Their repertoire will inspire creativity while providing a 21st-century perspective on its origins.
This program is partially supported by grants from the Illinois Arts Council Agency.
The Western Illinois Museum, located at 201 S. Lafayette Street in Macomb, is a non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving the history, culture, and traditions of McDonough County. Housed in a historic building just one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square, the Museum serves as a vibrant community hub with exhibits, an open collection area, lectures, music, and diverse programs.
For more information, call 309-837-2750, text 309-837-2613, or email info@wimuseum.org.
| Annual Open HouseSunday, February 23rd from 1:30 to 3:30 pm As we look ahead to the coming year, the Museum Board invites you to take a peek at our accomplishments in 2024 and hear what’s next! Join us on Sunday, February 23rd, anytime between 1:30 to 3:30 PM. And, what is quickly becoming a tradition, pie will be served! What’s in store for the afternoon?👀 Explore the Museum’s collection and uncover connections between topics, historical figures, and artifacts. 📢 Catch a brief presentation at 2:00 PM, highlighting last year’s successes and upcoming plans. 🔨 See our renovation progress and hear what’s next for the Museum. 📜 Learn about important updates to the Museum’s Bylaws. 🤝 Meet our Board of Directors and Advisory Council and share your thoughts. We look forward to spending some time with you. |
| The Museum is located at 201 S Lafayette Street, one block south of Macomb’s Courthouse Square. For more information contact the Museum by phone at 309.837.2750, by text at 309.837.2613 or by email at info@wimuseum.org. |
