Featuring handmade items, delicious foods, seasonal decorations, home & garden items, arts & crafts, cake walks, a marionette show, carolers and more. The inspiration for FeST is the work of the 19th century Ladies Sewing Society of the parish, who used a Christmas tree filled with handmade items as a church fundraiser in 1867.The name of the event is taken from the sale of needlework made by the Ladies’ Sewing Society of the parish each Christmas starting 1867, decorating what at the time was a novelty, a Christmas tree. The Society raised the funds for much of the architectural additions and furnishings that still grace the historic church building. Over the course of 40 years, with the products of their hands, the ladies paid for the pipe organ as well as extensive renovations to the church building. This description is from the Society’s 1867 minute book:
“On the 2nd of Dec a call meeting was held to make arrangements for a Christmas Tree, which the Society hoped, would be some help….They sent $20.00 to Baltimore, which was laid out in Toys, Confectionary, and Lights….The contributions to the tree included many items of fine needlework by the Ladies of the Society, and other irregular members. Articles made included cravats, dolls, infant clothing, handkerchiefs, aprons, crosses, pincushions, tobacco bags, and cushions. The Ladies obtained picture frames, illuminated cards and fireworks. Friends also contributed;
Taking the Ladies’ Sewing Society as a model, church members are using their hands and their talents to raise money, this time not for their own needs, but to support programs and organizations that serve the Hillsborough and Orange County community. All proceeds from FeST go to programs addressing the needs for food, shelter and clothing in Hillsborough and Orange County.
Cash & checks accepted. For more information call 919-732-9308. Hours: Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-4. www.stmatthewshillsborough.org
