Chocolate was apparently not as beloved in colonial times as it is now, and the Wilton Historical Society is seizing on that affection in presenting chocolate-making events just before Valentine’s Day. One is for adults and the other is for the younger set.
The first, on Saturday, Feb. 7, from 2 to 3, is for children in kindergarten through eighth grade.
Whoever their Valentine is — mom or dad, teacher, the boy or girl in the next row — they can make delicious, professional-looking chocolates and an origami-style box to put them in.
The fun and easy one-hour session will make use of an extensive collection of small, charming chocolate molds. Hearts, flowers, a multitude of animals, and stars are just some of the shapes that will be on hand.
This is not a drop-off program and space is limited so registration is essential. The materials fee is $5 per member child, $10 per non-member child.
Adults
There was a bit of a double standard where chocolate was concerned back in the 1700s. Chocolate was believed to have medicinal, nutritional (and aphrodisiac) properties, and was so valued that it was included in soldiers’ rations and used in lieu of wages.
And, according to chocolate historians at Colonial Williamsburg, it was believed to aid digestion, promote longevity, help lung ailments, energize the body, cure hangovers, suppress cough, and stimulate the libido. For that reason however, the Virginia Almanac of 1770 cautioned women against it, warning “the fair sex to be in a particular manner careful how they meddle with romances, chocolate, novels, and the like” especially in the spring, as those were all “inflamers” and “very dangerous.”
The historical society’s view is planted firmly in the present, however, as it offers Sweets for Sweethearts on Wednesday, Feb. 11, from 7 to 8 p.m.
Ladies who gather at the society may try their hand at making molded chocolates during an evening made more enjoyable as wine and other beverages will be served.
The artisanal chocolate they will use is very high quality and “worthy of being savored by discerning sweethearts, and will make a lovely gift for that special someone,” the society promises. A variety of mold shapes, including hearts and flowers, will be used.
The cost is $20 for members, $25 for non-members and registration is required.
Register for either the children’s or adults’ program by calling 203-762-7257 or emailing education@wiltonhistorical.org.