Shelton McMurphey Johnson House: Tea Time
The Shelton McMurphey Johnson House (SMJ House) on Willamette Street is a Victorian-style house that’s overlooked downtown Eugene since 1887. In the mid-1980s, the ”Castle on the Hill” was transferred to the Lane County Historical Society, and eventually the City of Eugene. With a rich history that reaches back over a century, the SMJ House welcomes individuals with rotating exhibits and amazing collections that educate and enlighten. The SMJ House is one of the first tourist attractions recognized by Travel Oregon and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Besides its historical significance, it also hosts regular tea parties throughout the year. In 2018, there are seven tea parties open to the public that coincide with both holidays and seasons. June Tea on June 9 and 10, Harvest Tea on Sept. 22 and 23, and Holiday Tea in December are just several examples. SMJ House purchases tea from local vendors, such as Mountain Rose Herbs, and tea types depend on the season and theme. Tea parties also feature sandwiches, scones, savories and desserts.
Tickets are available for purchase at www.smjhouse.org, and all dollars raised support SMJ House’s mission of public education of local historical events. Memberships are also available and allow free admission to the museum, discounts on teas and advanced access to tickets for upcoming tea parties.
The SMJ House also offers a Victorian Finishing School Summer Camp for children ages 9 to 12. This three-day educational camp teaches children about history and life lessons in an enjoyable manner. 2018 summer camp dates include June 26-28, July 24-26 and Aug. 14-16.
If you’re looking to learn more about your surroundings, have a taste for tea or are looking for an enlightening summer experience for your child, contact Shelton McMurphey Johnson House; they put the ”Tea” in Tourism.
ADDRESS: 303 Willamette St. Eugene, OR 97401
PHONE: 541-484-0808
WEBSITE: www.smj house.org
SOCIAL MEDIA: Facebook.com/SMJHouse
MUSEUM HOURS:
Mon: Closed
Tues-Fri: 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Sat-Sun: 1 p.m.-4 p.m.
