Mansion marks mistress’ birthday

On March 15, historic Belmont Mansion celebrates the 186th birthday of its mistress, Adelicia Acklen. The public is invited to Belmont to enjoy a day of special activities surrounding one of Tennessee’s most intriguing historical figures. The festivities will be included in the regular tour.

The Ladies’ Soldiers Friends Society, a living history re-enactment group, will be dressed in period costumes and demonstrating 19th century parlor activities such as quilling, bonnet making, needlework and paper flower design. They will have tea and birthday cake with Mrs. Acklen at 2 p.m.

Cynthia Landcaster, historical design consultant specializing in dining, will present a special exhibit on “cake” throughout American culinary history. The exhibit will include everything from 18th century funeral biscuits to election cakes and 19th century wedding cake, as well as a display of antique Victorian cake plates, baskets and stands.

The event kicks off a year-long celebration of Belmont Mansion’s 150th anniversary. Built by Joseph and Adelicia Acklen in 1853, Belmont Mansion is considered to be the most elaborate domestic interior built in ante-bellum Tennessee. Today, Belmont Mansion is the largest house museum in Tennessee.

As part of the anniversary, the Belmont estate is also currently featured in an exhibit at the Customs House Museum in Clarksville.

Hours for the March 15 celebration are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Adult admission is $8, $3 for children ages 6 to 12. For further information or directions, call 615-460-5459 or visit the Belmont website at www.belmontmansion.com.