Lieutenant Governor hosts annual Garden Party
What could be better than seeing a Garden Party through the eyes of a child? According to nine year old Flavie Deveaux, the answer is “attending one”! A number of residents from District 2 accompanied Minister Percy Paris, MLA for Waverley – Fall River – Beaver Bank, to the annual Garden Party hosted by the Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Mayann E. Francis, at the Lieutenant Governor’s mansion (known as Government House) in Halifax, on June 16. Among the invitees was young Flavie, who accompanied her mom Megan. Flavie looked every bit a proper lass in her lovely party dress and carrying her doll, which wore a matching outfit.
The history of Government House is vast. The cornerstone was laid on September 11, 1800, by Governor Sir John Wentworth, who had ordered the construction. Inscribed in the parchment in the stone was “Deo Favente” – With the Favour of God.
The lot where the historical structure is erected was originally purchased for a new Province House but was deemed too far out of town for public offices. It was decided the tranquil setting would be more suitable for a new Government House. Built to face Hollis Street and the harbour, it backs onto Pleasant (later Barrington) Street.
The layout of the grand structure was greatly influenced by Wentworth, formerly Governor of New Hampshire, who came to Halifax during the American Revolutionary War with his charming wife, Lady Frances. He was accustomed to stately homes and luxurious surroundings and made a strong and controversial case to erect a fine residence, second to none on the North American continent, for the Crown’s representative. The design of the mansion closely resembles classical traditions that were popular in England during the late eighteenth century. The interior of Government House was magnificent and grand, but incorporated practicality; it was built to serve both as a residence for the governor, his family and servants, and to accommodate state functions, with a ballroom, drawing room, and dining room for formal entertaining.
During her time at the Garden Party, Flavie got to meet many people, including the Lieutenant Governor. The little girl popped here and there, her curiosity taking her across lush green grass, while nibbling petite hourderves and sweets, and enjoying a delicious glass of punch. Tea was also popular among guests. Musicians played for many visitors who came by that day, most dressed in their finest Garden Party attire, including ladies wearing large brimmed sun hats or bonnets.
Flavie says she likes dressing up, and she really liked the variety of hats worn by the women that day. In fact, the nine year old was so impressed she is already making plans for any future Garden Party’s she may be invited to. “I want to buy a hat for myself for the next time!” she said.