A Revolutionary Garden Party Scrapbook

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Centerpiece — This year's theme was “revolutionary!”

This summer, Friends of Clermont commemorated America's 250th anniversary by hosting a truly "revolutionary" experience with A Revolutionary Garden Party!

What better way to celebrate America's Semiquincentennial than on the lawn of a Founding Father? Robert R. Livingston, otherwise known as “The Chancellor”, was an active patriot during the American Revolutionary War. He served on the Committee of Five to write the Declaration of Independence, drafted the New York Constitution, and served as the country’s first Secretary for Foreign Affairs. After the war he had the distinct honor of giving the presidential oath of office to George Washington in 1789. The Chancellor was also the lead negotiator of the Louisiana Purchase and, not only that, but he partnered with Robert Fulton on developing the first commercially viable steamboat.

Guests were welcomed to the garden party with melodic music from the Amalfi Duo and dined on tea sandwiches, appetizers, and sweet treats prepared by Rob Handel Catering. In keeping with the theme of the evening, we boycotted tea and welcomed The Traveling Tavern, who crafted our signature cocktail of the day: The Lafayette (gin, lemon juice, and strawberry puree, topped with prosecco).

Heather Rogers, former Friends of Clermont board member and Presidential Doodler

This year, we were proud to honor Heather Rogers, former Friends of Clermont board member and America's Preeminent Presidential Doodler. Heather delighted guests with stories of the Livingston family and how interwoven the family is into practically all aspects of early America.

If you heard Heather’s speech and want to see the letter she talked about, you can find it here (with her thoughts) or here (clean and without commentary). She'll be sharing more Livingston and Clermont history at upcoming virtual presentations.

Harkening back to Clermont's revolutionary roots, guests were also invited to play a selection of 18th-century games, including croquet, a Livingston family favorite pastime. Guests also bid in our online auction and joined a special tour of the historic mansion.

We are grateful for our community of members and donors who help to make these special occasions so memorable. This year's fundraiser was sold out as over 130 guests joined us as we celebrated this historic milestone. Friends of Clermont would like to thank everyone who helped make the party an unforgettable evening of history, music, community, and celebration.

Proceeds from the day’s event support the ongoing restoration of Clermont State Historic Site’s formal gardens.