Historical Society of Frankford hosts its annual holiday tea

Christmas decorations and holiday keepsakes from Frankford families of the past were on display Tuesday night inside the century-old Historical Society of Frankford building.

On the well-waxed wood of the 30-foot wide stage in the society’s main auditorium, more than a dozen holiday items, from red and gold trinkets to a yellowed painting of a wintry scene on Orthodox Street, were on display. Board members and friends were encouraged to bring an item of their own to display or discuss about their family or cultural traditions.

“The society looks beautiful,” said Secretary Patricia Coyne. Below, she shows NEast Philly one item in particular, a late 19th Century children’s sled that was donated by a local family.

As a gift to attendees, who were also treated to holiday sweets, the society’s board made Victorian-style crafts. Below, board member Cindy O’Donnell displays a couple examples, including a decoupage and a posey.