It was a year in which a fancy restaurant dinner could set you back 50 cents.
It was the year the North Shore Press started, the second in a long line of local newspapers that eventually led to the North Shore News. It was also the last Christmas before the start of the First World War. And it was the year that North Vancouver resident Jack Nye completed building his new house in Lynn Valley, just in time as his daughter Mollie was born that year.
Just over 100 years ago, in 1913, the area looked much different than it does now, and Christmas was a more understated affair. There weren't any malls or traffic jams, no cellphones or email. It was a quieter time, and a time to spend with family and friends. The house that Jack built is still standing. His daughter Mollie lived in the home for most of her life and it is now a heritage house operated by the Lynn Valley Services Society (on behalf of the district), and offers a variety of programs for people of all ages throughout the year.
This Sunday, Mollie Nye House will once again revisit its heritage with the annual Traditional Tea event. The event features tea, shortbread, and tarts for $5 per person. The home has been decorated for the season, and servers will be in old-fashioned costumes. "It's a way of opening up the house and making it accessible for people in the community to enjoy the heritage feel and to have a bit of a break," says Celeste Whittaker, who works with Lynn Valley Services Society.
A pianist will provide background seasonal music and Whittaker says the event is an opportunity for community members to take a break from the busyness of the season and relax with friends over a hot cup of tea.
Everyone is welcome at the event, all ages, and those who don't celebrate Christmas. Whittaker notes that the upstairs of the house has been preserved to look much like it was when Mollie Nye lived there, including original hardwood floors and stained glass, and that's where the tea will be held. "It's just a fun event. Just try to slow down a little bit and maybe meet some new people," she adds.
Tickets for the annual Traditional Tea on Sunday, Dec. 20 are $5, available at Mollie Nye House, 940 Lynn Valley Rd., North Vancouver. Tickets can be purchased in person between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. For more information call 604-987-5820.
