feature article - november 2008

Historic Pabst Mansion celebrates Victorian style

THE CAPTAIN Frederick Pabst Mansion, 2000W. Wisconsin Ave., presents AGrand Avenue Christmas, Nov. 21- Jan. 11. More than a dozen of the mansion’s rooms have been elegantly transformed in keeping with the mansion’s Victorian heritage.

On special display in Elsbeth’s Room is an exhibit from the Lake County Doll Collectors of Illinois showcasing toys and dolls from Grimm’s fairytales to modern times.

A Grand Avenue Christmas kicks off Nov. 20 with a Preview Gala, 5:30-7:00 p.m. This sneak peak reception includes champagne, hors d’oeuvres, silent auction and a stroll through the mansion’s enchanting rooms. ($15 members; $40 non-members.)

For 2008, Pabst Mansion holiday activities include something new - twilight tours from 5:30-8:30 p.m. Offered Nov. 28-29 and Dec. 26-27, these holiday open houses include costumed guides leading guests, carolers serenade and warm refreshments complete the evening. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Children $6 in advance and $8 at the door.

Saturdays in December at 11 a.m., traditional holiday children’s stories are read to children in Mrs. Pabst’s Sitting Room. (Free with admission.) Also for children, “Gilded Age Glitz” is the focus 12:30-2:30 p.m. on Dec. 7, with historically inspired crafts for kids. Activities include Christmas Crackers (a British tradition), Victorian inspired Christmas cards and Christmas Dinner place cards. (Free with paid admission.)

Every Sunday in December at 1 p.m., live music will be presented in the mansion’s stunning music room. On Dec. 2 from 5:30-8 p.m., those who want to learn more about 19th century holiday traditions can attend a lecture by Pabst Mansion Senior Historian John C. Eastberg. Contact the sponsor, The Friends of Milwaukee County Historical Society, for tickets and information at 273-8288.

Dickens Dinners return, presented by Bartolotta Catering Co. & Events. “Charles Dickens” reads aloud fromAChristmas Carol during the dinners, held Dec. 15-23. Reserve by calling Bartolotta's, 727-6980.

Visitors may choose the $12 Holiday Season Pass to the Pabst Mansion, Charles Allis Art Museum, 1801 Prospect Ave., Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum, 2220 N. Terrace Ave. The museums are decorated for the season according to their unique architectural styles and can be visited for this one low price. (Tickets available at all three locations.)

The Pabst Mansion’s holiday hours are 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday through Saturday and noon-4 p.m. Sunday. Holiday admission is Adults/$9, Seniors, College Students/$8 and Children 6-17/$5. Children under 6 admitted free.

For more special events tickets or information, phone 931-0808 or visit www.pabstmansion.com.