Having a punch bowl means you have parties. Having a footed punch bowl with 25 cups means you have BIG parties! The set on display in the dining room at the May-Stringer Museum is pressed glass and was made in 1908 by the U.S. Glass Company. The pattern is called Skewed Horseshoe.
I’ve been looking for a punch recipe that might be fitting of such a stunning service set; I haven’t found one. I’m going to hazard a guess, though, as to the ingredients. The base of the punch would be strong, freshly steeped black tea. While the tea is still warm, stir in some cane syrup or sugar. Since pineapple was grown in Brooksville around the turn of the 20th century, peel, core and press the juice from a couple of pineapples. Juice a few lemons for more golden color. Add enough ice water to adjust the taste to what pleases you. Float a few mint leaves or thinly sliced orange slices. Now you are ready for the big event!
The Museums are open!
The May-Stringer: Tours Tuesday – Saturday – 11am – 3pm – 352-799-0129
The 1885 Depot: Tours Wednesday, Friday & Saturday – Noon – 3pm – 352-799-4766
The Countryman One Room Schoolhouse: Tours Saturday – Noon – 3pm – 352-515-3054 or 630-464-2313
