An Afternoon to Remember benefit raises $78,000

WARWICK — An Afternoon to Remember, inspired by the BBC series, “Downton Abbey,” and sponsored by St. Anthony Community Hospital and the Town of Warwick Historical Society, was held on the picturesque lawn of Lewis Park in the Village of Warwick last Sunday.

The event drew approximately 200 people; the proceeds, which will benefit the hospital and the historical society, totalled more than $78,000.

St. Anthony Community Hospital staff were also on hand offering free health screenings along with information on the many community and health services provided by the Hospital.

The Afternoon to Remember began with noon registration at the A. W. Buckbee Center followed by a grand tour of five of the historical society’s downtown museums and properties. Immediately after the tour guests gathered at an elegant tea party on the lawn of Lewis Park.

The benefit featured tables set for afternoon tea where guests were served a light meal along with tea and wine as well as a variety of savories and sweets. Tussie Mussies, small floral nosegays gifted during Victorian times to express various sentiments, were also presented to each guest.

The Vivace String Quartet provided musical entertainment for the afternoon. Members of the Warwick Valley High School Chamber Orchestra also performed during registration at the A. W. Buckbee Center.

Lilibet McLean
A highlight of the afternoon was the introduction of honoree Elizabeth “Lilibet” Lewis McLean.

Lilibet McLean’s uncle, Dr. Morris Renfrew Bradner Sr., was a founding member of Warwick’s first hospital in 1916. And in the 1950’s, her cousin, Dr. Morris Renfrew Bradner Jr., joined his father on staff as a surgeon and became a guiding force in the growth of St. Anthony Community Hospital until his death in 1996 when he was its chief of staff.

The Town of Warwick Historical Society was also the recipient of the Lewis Family generosity and wisdom. Beginning in the 1950s, the family donated the Old School Baptist MeetingHouse, the 1810 House, Lewis Park, Sly Barn, and Baird’s Tavern. Many of these historic sites might not be in existence today had it not been for the foresight of the Lewis Family to preserve them through the Historical Society.

Off to the UK
The “Downton Abbey” style turn-of-the-century afternoon was based on the popular PBS television series filmed at Highclere Castle in Newbury, UK. In addition to silent auction bidding opportunities, a drawing was held for a raffle prize vacation trip for two to England and admission to Highclere Castle. The lucky winner was Emily Cox.