VICTORIAN TEA GALA – HONORING MAYOR SHAWN REILLY
Join us on Wednesday, April 8th, from 4-6 pm at the Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum for a one-of-a-kind celebration honoring Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly. This elegant Victorian Tea Gala honors the mayor’s years of service while benefiting our museum. Enjoy afternoon tea, our newly opened Springs Exhibit, and a memorable gala experience.
Tables and individual seats available.
Don’t miss this extraordinary event.
EMCEE BRET LEMOINE, FOX6 WAUKESHA REPORTER
We are honored to welcome Bret as the MC of this year’s Victorian Tea Gala – Honoring Mayor Shawn Reilly. Bret is a Wisconsin native and an award winning reporter for FOX6 News, where he covers Waukesha County.
Through his reporting on local people, places and pivotal moments, Bret captures the present-day stories that become tomorrow’s history, reflecting the same spirits of storytelling preserved in the museum as a trusted repository of our shared past. Bret is known for his thoughtful, on-the-ground reporting and approachable style.
He also happens to be a lifelong Superman fan, guided by the same belief in truth and service that defines his work.
A WORD ON TEA
In the Victorian era, tea was a cherished social institution. It was an occasion designed as much for conversation as for refreshment. Afternoon tea created a welcoming space where neighbors, visitors, and friends gathered to exchange ideas, news, and companionship in an atmosphere of civility and ease.
These gatherings fostered connection and community, allowing relationships to flourish over shared cups and carefully prepared fare. Our Victorian Tea Gala revives this tradition, inviting guests to slow the pace of the day, enjoy thoughtful conversation, and experience the enduring pleasure of coming together, just as Waukesha once did during its celebrated Springs era.
HONORING MAYOR SHAWN REILLY
Since taking office in 2012, Mayor Reilly has guided the city through meaningful growth, major infrastructure initiatives, and strengthened public safety, all while fostering open communication and civic engagement. Like a well-prepared tea, his leadership balanced strength and refinement, practicality and care—bringing people together to shape a resilient and forward-looking city. This afternoon offers a fitting moment to reflect on his legacy, share good company, and express gratitude for a tenure defined by service and substance.
SPRINGS EXHIBIT
This year’s Gala coincides with the opening of our new Springs Exhibit. You will enjoy time in the exhibit prior to the event. Sponsorship of the event includes a full-year sponsorship of the exhibit, helping bring stories to life, supporting the research, design, and curation that make each display meaningful and memorable.
The Bethesda Spring park seen here in the 1890’s. The grounds were ‘improved’ from a horse pasture. In the background, on the left, is the Terrace Hotel. The Spring House dominates the right of the picture. Between 1868 and 1914 Waukesha County was redefined by the discovery and promotion of healing springs and summer resort culture.
A Special Thanks to our Sponsors:
TABLE SPONSORS:
Spring Bank
BNI – Circle of Success Chapter
