Jamien Morehouse, for whom the Jamien Morehouse Wing of the Farnsworth Art Museum is named, started a tradition in 1986 by sending packages of tea and an invitation to 100 of her friends, asking each of them to invite a friend for a cup of tea at 4 p.m. on the first day of spring, that they might all, even though apart, “drink together on that day.” That year, over 200 friends and family members worldwide had tea together. The tradition continued, fanning out, including more and more friends, until in 1993, Jamien entreated again by way of a fresh invitation: “I am mailing this invitation, knowing that you share my feelings about living deliberately.” Jamien Morehouse died of cancer May 3, 1999.

It is in this spirit that on Tuesday, March 20, the Farnsworth hosts its annual celebration of spring rejuvenation and camaraderie over a cup of tea. At 3 p.m. a short talk on the Farnsworth’s Victorian garden will begin the afternoon events. Tea service starts at 4 p.m. in the museum’s library. Mary Schulien, music director at the Lincolnville United Methodist Church, will lead those wishing to participate in singing songs of peace. Flute solos and accapella singing in the Morehouse Wing rotunda will begin at 4 p.m.

The event is free and open to the public, but reservations are recommended, and should be made by Friday, March 16. For more information or to make a reservation, call the museum at 596-6457, ext. 143.