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Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club
This book is a 2024 winner of the Literary Titan Gold Award in Nonfiction
Bainy Cyrus's "Tea and At the Woman's Club" is an enthralling narrative of fortitude, determination, and an unshakeable commitment to preserve a piece of history. The drama is set against the backdrop of the Martin estate, a 10,000-square-foot Georgian Revival gem, and follows Susanne Ott, Paige Rose, and Polly Jones as they begin on a journey to rescue this century-old estate and the Woman's Club of Norfolk. The two ladies are met with a decaying home afflicted by water damage, mildew, and a litany of safety problems, with an aged foundation echoing the challenges they face. Their dedication to preserving the estate's rich history and distinctive design takes center stage as they face tremendous financial obstacles, unpaid taxes, and a two-month deadline to secure the mansion. In "Tea and Toil," Bainy Cyrus creates a moving story about the enduring force of community, the significance of history, and the will of women to overcome misfortune. This inspiring narrative goes into the complications of preserving a historic property while demonstrating the tenacity of people who refuse to let go of their treasured history. "Tea and Toil" is a delightful and thought-provoking voyage that captures the essence of preservation, resilience, and the unbroken human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone who values history's beauty and the tenacity of the human heart.
Bainy Cyrus's "Tea and At the Woman's Club" is an enthralling narrative of fortitude, determination, and an unshakeable commitment to preserve a piece of history. The drama is set against the backdrop of the Martin estate, a 10,000-square-foot Georgian Revival gem, and follows Susanne Ott, Paige Rose, and Polly Jones as they begin on a journey to rescue this century-old estate and the Woman's Club of Norfolk. The two ladies are met with a decaying home afflicted by water damage, mildew, and a litany of safety problems, with an aged foundation echoing the challenges they face. Their dedication to preserving the estate's rich history and distinctive design takes center stage as they face tremendous financial obstacles, unpaid taxes, and a two-month deadline to secure the mansion. In "Tea and Toil," Bainy Cyrus creates a moving story about the enduring force of community, the significance of history, and the will of women to overcome misfortune. This inspiring narrative goes into the complications of preserving a historic property while demonstrating the tenacity of people who refuse to let go of their treasured history. "Tea and Toil" is a delightful and thought-provoking voyage that captures the essence of preservation, resilience, and the unbroken human spirit, making it a must-read for anyone who values history's beauty and the tenacity of the human heart.
408 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
May 20, 2024
Tea and Toil at the Woman's Club by Bainy Cyrus is a delicious blend of memoir complemented by history.
Since 1925, the Martin Mansion has been home to the Woman’s Club of Norfolk. It is located in pristine and historic Ghent in Norfolk, Virginia. The Alvah Martin Mansion was built in 1909 and is 10,000 square feet whose content is full of blissful history. The home boasts Georgian Revival architecture and while under construction, Alvah Martin lived in the house next door to watch this magnificent creation come to life. Alvah Martin was a noted attorney, bank president, and county clerk for many years. To add to his already prestigious resume, he also served on President Taft’s Executive Committee and managed to use his influence with the President to secure the Port of Norfolk. In 1925, the Woman’s Club purchased the mansion from the Martin family. However, prior to the Woman’s Club purchasing the home, it was sold in 1920 to the Virginia Club: a gentleman’s organization that is now located in downtown Norfolk, Virginia.
At the time of purchase by the Woman’s Club, the exterior of the home appeared to have weathered a multitude of years against the proverbial storm: “…Long after its 1910 construction, the Martin Mansion appeared to be gracefully aging like the Egyptian pyramids without any chance of toppling. But it only looked that way on the outside. No one knew the decrepitude of the mansion, much less what was happening underneath…” It wasn’t until an early evening walk with her husband around 2010 that Susanne Ott mustered the courage to knock on the door of the Martin Mansion. She was greeted by Paige Rose, the elderly woman who introduced herself as the director of the Martin Mansion. As they settled into conversation, Ms. Rose gave Susanne the history book of the club. Ms. Ott was extremely impressed with the information and went on to recruit a couple of her friends to join the Woman’s Club—one of them being Paige Rose. After studying more of the history Susanne had a multitude of questions; specifically, about the financial state of the Martin Mansion. The answers were extremely vague in return. When asked specifically what would happen should the Martin Mansion run out of funds the answer was: “…Well, we would just give the house and contents to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs or just sell it…” And the birth of not only preserving the Mansion, but maintaining its ownership by the Woman’s Club of Norfolk was born.
Bainy Cyrus has penned an incredibly intriguing body of written work. Countless moments are captured across the pages toward foundational perseverance well beyond what these women achieved. It was a period of history when a woman’s position in life was to prepare meals for their men and birth their children. Ms. Cyrus showcases the important roles the women assumed as members of the Woman’s Club of Norfolk by bringing the arts, culture, entertainment and ‘can do’ attitude by simply owning the tasks and following through with them. It is important to note that this story exudes tangible life, thanks to Ms. Cyrus’ personal documentation of her fifty years at The Woman’s Club. She participated in elementary school skits, Christmas caroling, and science fairs in the mansions’ auditorium, coupled with attending cocktail parties and Thanksgiving gatherings on the impressive first floor. She shines a bright light on the survival of an iconic structure that has weathered the Great Depression, as well as many storms over the years. Well done, Ms. Cyrus. This is truly one of the most enthralling reads I’ve had the pleasure to devour in quite some time!
Quill says: Tea and Toil at the Woman's Club is a historical journey of epic proportions.
Since 1925, the Martin Mansion has been home to the Woman’s Club of Norfolk. It is located in pristine and historic Ghent in Norfolk, Virginia. The Alvah Martin Mansion was built in 1909 and is 10,000 square feet whose content is full of blissful history. The home boasts Georgian Revival architecture and while under construction, Alvah Martin lived in the house next door to watch this magnificent creation come to life. Alvah Martin was a noted attorney, bank president, and county clerk for many years. To add to his already prestigious resume, he also served on President Taft’s Executive Committee and managed to use his influence with the President to secure the Port of Norfolk. In 1925, the Woman’s Club purchased the mansion from the Martin family. However, prior to the Woman’s Club purchasing the home, it was sold in 1920 to the Virginia Club: a gentleman’s organization that is now located in downtown Norfolk, Virginia.
At the time of purchase by the Woman’s Club, the exterior of the home appeared to have weathered a multitude of years against the proverbial storm: “…Long after its 1910 construction, the Martin Mansion appeared to be gracefully aging like the Egyptian pyramids without any chance of toppling. But it only looked that way on the outside. No one knew the decrepitude of the mansion, much less what was happening underneath…” It wasn’t until an early evening walk with her husband around 2010 that Susanne Ott mustered the courage to knock on the door of the Martin Mansion. She was greeted by Paige Rose, the elderly woman who introduced herself as the director of the Martin Mansion. As they settled into conversation, Ms. Rose gave Susanne the history book of the club. Ms. Ott was extremely impressed with the information and went on to recruit a couple of her friends to join the Woman’s Club—one of them being Paige Rose. After studying more of the history Susanne had a multitude of questions; specifically, about the financial state of the Martin Mansion. The answers were extremely vague in return. When asked specifically what would happen should the Martin Mansion run out of funds the answer was: “…Well, we would just give the house and contents to the General Federation of Women’s Clubs or just sell it…” And the birth of not only preserving the Mansion, but maintaining its ownership by the Woman’s Club of Norfolk was born.
Bainy Cyrus has penned an incredibly intriguing body of written work. Countless moments are captured across the pages toward foundational perseverance well beyond what these women achieved. It was a period of history when a woman’s position in life was to prepare meals for their men and birth their children. Ms. Cyrus showcases the important roles the women assumed as members of the Woman’s Club of Norfolk by bringing the arts, culture, entertainment and ‘can do’ attitude by simply owning the tasks and following through with them. It is important to note that this story exudes tangible life, thanks to Ms. Cyrus’ personal documentation of her fifty years at The Woman’s Club. She participated in elementary school skits, Christmas caroling, and science fairs in the mansions’ auditorium, coupled with attending cocktail parties and Thanksgiving gatherings on the impressive first floor. She shines a bright light on the survival of an iconic structure that has weathered the Great Depression, as well as many storms over the years. Well done, Ms. Cyrus. This is truly one of the most enthralling reads I’ve had the pleasure to devour in quite some time!
Quill says: Tea and Toil at the Woman's Club is a historical journey of epic proportions.
March 11, 2024
Celebrating Women's Day, one can hardly find a more fitting tribute than delving into stories that highlight women's varied achievements, challenges, and victories. Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club, penned by Bainy Cyrus, is an eloquent testament to this spirit. This book meticulously documents the revitalization efforts of the historic Martin estate. This site once thrived as the hub of The Woman's Club in Norfolk, Virginia, but subsequently faced decline due to financial struggles. The narrative is richly interwoven with tales of committed individuals who tirelessly worked to restore the club's splendor.
Cyrus' book shines through Susanne Ott, Polly Jones, and Paige Rose's journey to resurrect the estate. Their story is told with a remarkable finesse that combines vivid descriptions, engaging dialogues, and a cohesive flow documenting their restoration of the estate. The reader is drawn into the book from the outset and remains captivated throughout as they see the dreams of these women come to life. The book's core, however, lies in its portrayal of women's empowerment. The women who took on this monumental task show a remarkable blend of strength, resilience, and independence, creating a powerful and relevant message.
Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club is more than just a historical recount; it's a narrative that celebrates and empowers women, encapsulated in excellent writing and rich historical context. This book is a commendable read for those seeking an insightful and inspiring literary experience.
Cyrus' book shines through Susanne Ott, Polly Jones, and Paige Rose's journey to resurrect the estate. Their story is told with a remarkable finesse that combines vivid descriptions, engaging dialogues, and a cohesive flow documenting their restoration of the estate. The reader is drawn into the book from the outset and remains captivated throughout as they see the dreams of these women come to life. The book's core, however, lies in its portrayal of women's empowerment. The women who took on this monumental task show a remarkable blend of strength, resilience, and independence, creating a powerful and relevant message.
Tea and Toil at The Woman's Club is more than just a historical recount; it's a narrative that celebrates and empowers women, encapsulated in excellent writing and rich historical context. This book is a commendable read for those seeking an insightful and inspiring literary experience.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews