Victorian Yuletide Inspires Holiday Cheer

Bells were ringing and the choir was singing Sunday at the Ravenswood Historic Site's annual .

The ballroom in the Main House was filled to capacity with revelers enjoying holiday music and refreshments, while outside, visitors lined up for horse and carriage rides, a visit with St. Nick, and tours of the beautifully decorated property.

In addition, the event featured crafts for children, and in the Cottage a lacemaking demonstration from representatives of The Lace Museum in Sunnyvale.

Yuletide is all about sharing, and at Ravenswood a dedicated team of docents were on hand to do just that -- offering their love for the house, its history, and all things Victorian.

Maryalice Faltings, who is a member of the board of directors, serves as the docent chairman at Ravenswood. She was all smiles at the event.

"When we started this event in 1998 we were trying to find a way to let the community know that we were here and open for tours," Faltings said while surveying the crowd with a grin. "I think they've found us."

Ravenswood is one of nearly 40 Historic House Museums in the Bay Area, and decorated in the style of 1898 it retains every bit of its original charm.

Enjoying her first visit was Connie Keegan of Pleasanton. Thrilled to find Victoriana in Livermore, she recalled stories from her youth after watching the lacemaking demonstration in the Cottage.

Keegan spoke of the finely detailed garters on her great-grandmothers pantaloons with awe.

"I had no idea how much work went into an inch of lace," she said. "What a pleasure to watch it being made."

Outside, miniature horse and carriage rides were provided by Tickle Me Pony Parties. Laura Gehrman and her son Jack, both of Livermore, munched on cookies while they waited for their chance to ride.

"I love this place, I've been coming here for years and Jack has a great time," Gehrman said. "It's a wonderful way to teach him that there is more to Christmas than toys."

Entertainment was provided by the Choral Group, the Band, , the Dance Academy, and the .

The is open the 2nd and 4th Sundays of each month from noon to 4pm for free public tours. Their next event, a Victorian Tea, will be held on May 1st. Please contact the at 925-443-0238 for more information.