FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Marilyn Snyder
June 2, 2008
(701) 328-2792

‘HIGH TEAS’ HOSTED BY FORMER FIRST LADY GRACE LINK SET
FOR SUMMER AT FORMER GOVERNORS’ MANSION SITE IN BISMARCK

BISMARCK – A series of “high teas” hosted by former North Dakota First Lady Grace Link will be held at the Former Governors’ Mansion State Historic Site in Bismarck on select Mondays and Tuesdays this summer, from 2 to 3 p.m.  The dates for the events are June 24, July 14 and August 5.

The cost of the tea party is $5 per person.  Pre-registration is required for each “high tea,” as space is limited.  To pre-register, call Marilyn Snyder at (701) 328-2792. Those interested need to specify which date they will be attending.

Adults and children are invited to participate.  Tea will be served outdoors, weather-permitting, or inside the Mansion in case of bad weather. Participants are encouraged to dress up in their dated finery, including party hats and gloves. Typical English tea cakes will be served to the participants, or “guests.”  After the guests are greeted and seated, Mrs. Link will discuss the history of the Mansion, including the people who once lived in the house. The guests will also be able to tour the Mansion before or after the tea.

“Just think about the combination of history and tea,” said Marilyn Snyder, curator of education for the State Historical Society of North Dakota, which manages the Former Governor’s Mansion site.  “What better way to learn about our former governors’ families than to visit with a former first lady who is a legend in our state?  She tells wonderful stories.”

Grace Link served as North Dakota’s First Lady during the eight years her husband, Arthur Link, was governor, from 1973-81.  The Links live in Bismarck.

The Former Governors’ Mansion State Historic Site is located at the corner of Fourth Street and Avenue B in Bismarck.  The site consists of a large two and one-half story, restored Victorian house, and newly restored carriage house.  Built in 1884, it housed 20 chief executives of North Dakota between 1893 and 1960.  Unique exhibits feature the restoration process, architectural style changes and furniture used by several governors.  One of 56 state historic sites managed by the State Historical Society of North Dakota, it is open from May 16 through September 15, Wednesdays through Sundays from 1 to 5 p.m., as well as the second Friday and Saturday of each month during the winter.  Admission is free. 

For schedule information, contact the State Historical Society at (701) 328-2666 or visit the agency’s web site at www.nd.gov/hist.                                             

– 30 –