Mackinac State Historic Parks’ sites may be closed for the winter season, but history is still very much brewing.

On Wednesday, February 25 at 7:00 p.m., Lead Civilian Interpreter Devan McNabb will host Some Tea and Loaf Sugar: Tea and Society at Michilimackinac as part of the popular History at Home virtual series. The program will take place over Zoom and is included in the parks’ year-long America250 celebration.

By the 1770s, tea had become the beverage of choice in most British households at Michilimackinac. What may seem like a simple cup of tea today was once deeply tied to global trade networks, imperial expansion, and social status. The demand for tea, along with furs, silk, and spices, helped shape Britain’s global empire, reaching even remote outposts like Michilimackinac.

During this engaging virtual discussion, McNabb will explore how tea influenced the British economy and social hierarchy during the era of the American Revolution. Through the lens of brewing and serving tea, participants will gain insight into daily life, class structure, and the far-reaching impact of global commerce in the 18th century.

The cost to attend is $10. Registered participants will receive a Zoom link the day before the program. More information and registration details are available through Mackinac State Historic Parks.

Mackinac Associates supports most programs and projects at Mackinac State Historic Parks. Those interested in learning more about Mackinac Associates can visit their website.

Members who would like to participate in this program are encouraged to reach out to via the membership email for additional information.

Even in the quiet of winter, Mackinac history continues to connect the past to the present, one cup at a time.