Devon National Trust Marks 100 Years with Vibrant Jazz Celebration
The Devon National Trust is celebrating a significant milestone, marking 100 years of heritage and environmental stewardship. To commemorate this occasion, the organization hosted a vibrant jazz celebration, reminiscent of the lively atmosphere of the 1920s.
Unique Experience: Jazz and Cocktails
Attendees were invited to step into a speakeasy-style area, designed to evoke the charm of Prohibition-era drinking dens in the United States. This immersive space allowed guests to enjoy an authentic Savoy cocktail experience, with traditional recipes featuring no mixers. The cocktails served during this celebration emphasized the potency of 1920s beverages, as noted by the collections and house officer, Rachel Stammers.
The Savoy Cocktail Book
Stammers highlighted the influence of the Savoy family in popularizing cocktails in the UK, particularly through the renowned American Bar at the Savoy Hotel. The Savoy Cocktail Book contains a remarkable 750 recipes, showcasing the variety of drinks that characterized the era.
Activities and Entertainment
In addition to cocktail tastings, visitors had the opportunity to engage in various activities that transported them back to the 1920s. Guests could participate in card games reflective of the time and enjoy vintage cinema screenings featuring Pathé films that celebrated dance culture from that decade.
- Authentic Savoy cocktails
- Card games from the 1920s
- Screenings of vintage Pathé films
Learn to Dance
The celebration also featured interactive dance sessions, where participants could learn popular dance styles from the saloon era. This unique combination of music, cocktails, and engaging activities contributed to an unforgettable celebration.
As the Devon National Trust honors its centenary, events like these serve to connect the past with the present, ensuring that heritage and tradition continue to thrive.
