THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1994, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, July 14, 1994 TAG: 9407120142
SECTION: NORFOLK COMPASS PAGE: 15 EDITION: FINAL
SOURCE: BY JOAN C. STANUS, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: Short : 38 lines
As an affluent French Canandian living in Norfolk during the 19th century, Eliza Myers probably hosted countless celebrations in honor of Bastille Day, the national Independence Day of France.
Today, in a historical re-enactment, the wife of Moses Myers will serve as a Bastille Day hostess once again.
Starting at 5:30 p.m., an evening of wine tasting, music, hors d'oeuvres and historical storytelling will be held at the historic Moses Myers House in downtown Norfolk in honor of France's July 14 holiday. An actor portraying Mrs. Myers will host the event. Throughout the evening, she will describe the customs surrounding dining and entertaining during the 1800s.
Another actor, who will play a 19th-century sea captain, will also participate in the re-enactment.
``Norfolk had a strong connection to France: There were a lot of French emigrees living in Norfolk at the time,'' explained Andrea Burzky, education specialist for the Chrysler Museum's Historic Houses. ``We have reason to believe that Bastille Day celebrations were very common then, not just in France. And we know that the Myers would have entertained a great deal, too. So it's a very appropriate setting for a celebration such as this.'' ILLUSTRATION: AT A GLANCE
The Bastille Day program will last about 90 minutes. Cost is $14.
The price for friends of the Historic Houses is $10.
Reservations can be made by calling 664-6283. Participation is
limited.
by CNB