PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — The Presque Isle Historical Society will offer its second annual Victorian Valentine event with tours at 6 and again at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Feb. 14.
Kim Smith, board member and event organizer, said she was inspired in early 2018 to create this event when she noticed that Portland’s Longfellow House was hosting an event for Valentine’s Day.
This tour through the 1875 Vera Estey House Museum at 16 Third Street is Valentine-themed and perfect for a unique date or for the history buff.
“Tour-goers will enjoy a glass of champagne or sparkling cider and hear the story of Vera’s lost love,” Smith said. “In addition, visitors will learn about a wide variety of Victorian Valentine facts including Victorian courting customs, the history of Valentine’s Day, about ‘vinegar’ Valentines and the Victorian language of flowers.”
The rooms of the small, two-story Victorian era house on Third Street in Presque Isle are decorated for Valentine’s Day, and many of the volunteers will be in period clothing. Even the full-length Victorian ball gown made from evergreen boughs is decked out for the February holiday.
Visitors will receive a reproduction Victorian Valentine and ladies will receive a carnation. Discussion will include Queen Victoria’s alleged affair with her Scottish groomsman.
Tour-goers must be 21 years of age. As space is limited, reservations are required by calling 762-1151 or emailing pihistoricalsociety@hotmail.com. On-street parking is available, or visitors may park in the public lot on Second Street and walk around the corner.
