Gari Melchers: Southern Hospitality

"The Open Door" by Gari Melchers

This is an clipping from the Daily Star (forerunner of today's Free Lance-Star) dated January 3, 1921 highlighting a New Year's Day party the Melchers hosted here at Belmont.

"New Year's Reception"
January 1921
Mr. and Mrs. Melchers Entertain
at Tea and Dance at Belmont

"Mr. and Mrs. Gari Melchers entertained at a charming afternoon tea and dance at their Virginia home, Belmont, in Stafford county, a short distance from Fredericksburg on New Year's Day. Nearly one hundred guests were invited, the large majority of them from this city and section, while others were present from several distant States.

The handsome colonial mansion never appeared prettier with the simple, though artistic decorations of foliage, cedar trees and holly from nearby forests, and lighted by wax candles and shaded candleabra. The entire lower floor was thrown open to the guests. Mr. and Mrs. Melchers were assisted in receiving by their house guests, Mr. and Mrs. Louis Hine of London, and Mr. Magill Machall of Baltimore. Mr. Hind, who is an art critic and author of international note, with Mrs. Hind, are spending the winter in New York.

A marine orchestra from the Quantico Post furnished excellent music for dancing, and at frequent periods the floors of the spacious drawing rooms were filled with couples.

Refreshments, which included all the delicacies associated with old fashioned Virginia hospitality, were served. The occasion was one of the most delightful informal social functions held in this section in recent years, and was worthy of the best and oldest days of 'Ole Virginia.'"