Ladies Hats and Tea

This past weekend the Banneker-Douglass Museum co-hosted one of its most anticipated events of the year - the annual Ladies Hats and Tea. This event first started in 2007 as a one-time program to coincide with the exhibition Trails, Tracks, Tarmac and was so well received it was brought back as an annual event. Partnering with the Wiley H. Bates Legacy Center and the Northern Arundel Cultural Preservation Society, Inc., the museum has offered the event each March as a tribute to Women's History Month.

This event brings out hats of all shapes, sizes, and designs. There are always at least a few historical hats or hats passed down from family members. Some are very colorful and/or well embellished while others are simple and understated. It is always interesting to see what hats will appear at the event.

During the Hats and Tea, the audience is treated to multiple speakers and performances. The 2010 Hats and Tea was themed Changing Perspectives. To go along with the theme, the planning committee asked attendees to consider how they can change the life of a young person. The audience was treated to singing, a saxophone solo, liturgical dance, and hand dancing all performed by young community members. Additionally we had two guest speakers - Master Chief Evelyn Banks from the United States Naval Academy and the First Lady of Maryland, Judge Katie O'Malley. Both women spoke about the role of women throughout history up to today and how women will shape the future.

Calls for the 2011 Hats and Tea are already coming in. Information about the 2011 Ladies Hats and Tea will appear on the museum's website later this year or early next year. If you would like to help plan next year's tea or participate, please contact us at BDMPrograms@goci.state.md.us.