My First Victorian Picnic

August in Washington - hot - humid - and everyone is looking for shade.  I had ventured to Falls Church, Virginia to capture the President's Picnic for the Victorian Society of Falls Church.  I arrived at Frady Park, not knowing what to expect and not sure I was in the right place - the park was empty except for a few people walking their dogs.  Frady Park is small and tucked away but as I initially wandered through it, I realized that it was the perfect location for a picnic.  I was immediately attracted to a beautiful gazebo that, turns out, was donated by the Victorian Society of Fall Church. 

I hung around the parking lot until I saw my first person in Victorian dress walking into the park with a large picnic basket.  I introduced myself and any concerns I had that I would not be welcomed - after all, how many people want their picture taken by strangers - disappeared as soon as I met Mac.  He was charming, friendly, made me feel very welcomed, and explained the Victorian Society, their connection to the Park, and the events they were involved in throughout the year.  As it turns out, everyone I met made me feel welcomed and they willingly posed for photographs as they played croquet in the park.

As it turns out they are a very active organization.  Their activities include literary evenings featuring the writings of Victorian authors, a book discussion group, picnics with croquet and lawn bowling, civilian Civil War re-enactments, teas and socials, living history programs, fashion shows, workshops for making 19^th century hats, clothing, and accessories, theatre outings to see Victorian era plays and musicals, historic home tours, trips to Victorian locations (such as Cape May, NJ), 19^th century dance classes, and an annual ball, featuring period dancing and guests in 19^th century attire.

After a few hours of conversation and picture taking, I thanked them and left them to their picnic with an invite to photograph their masquerade ball coming up before Halloween.