Museum Offers Unique Setting For Luncheons, Teas
Tucked away in the old courthouse, tables are set with antique linens and China, the meal is ready and volunteers are prepared to showcase the McDonald County Historical Society Museum.
The special historical place offers an ambiance not found elsewhere.
As group members meet, they’ll have the unique chance to visit and dine on light fare at the ladies luncheon, conduct a business meeting and tour the historical museum.
McDonald County’s second courthouse, built in 1861, currently serves as the McDonald County Historical Museum. Historical Society volunteers began offering the setting for luncheons and meetings last year. Volunteers say the setting is working well for a variety of groups.
The museum can accommodate approximately 20 to 25 people for lunch, said volunteer Karen Dobbs.
Staff members set up tables to feature antique settings, including vintage linens and antique silverware and China.
Every tabletop features different China and a vintage tablecloth, which “creates conversation around the table,” Dobbs said.
People love the old-fashioned China and the vintage look that’s featured.
“We like to make each one special and different,” Dobbs said.
Volunteers wear vintage aprons and wait on those dining. “We have a lot of fun with it,” she said.
Museum volunteers have received thank-you notes from satisfied “customers” who say that volunteers went “above and beyond” for their unique luncheon and meeting.
The museum has been host to several luncheons, meetings and teas. Dobbs said that chicken salad sandwiches, along with a fruit tray and dessert, are usually the highlights but volunteers are open to almost any menu idea.
Reservations should be made at least one week in advance, maybe more to give volunteers sufficient time to make arrangements.
Cost is determined per plate and by the menu item. Volunteers usually ask for a minimum of about 12 people for a luncheon or tea.
McDonald County Historical Society President Lynn Tatum said groups can arrange to hold meetings there without charge. Epsilon Sigma Alpha and the Questers from Bella Vista are examples of two groups who have utilized the museum for their meetings and the option worked very well, she said.
Volunteers can present a program and give them a tour of the museum at no cost as well, she added.
Groups who wish to meet elsewhere, and then visit the museum for a tour, can do so. Volunteers will be happy to give them a tour at no charge.
For club members, the museum offers a change in venue and a chance to experience something different, she said.
For reservations, call Dobbs at (417) 389-1865 or Jane Lantz at (417) 529-3015 or message them on Facebook.