By Rev. Peggy Bartlett
HAGERSVILLE—The spirit of the Old West came alive on Saturday, May 23, 2026 as Hagersville United Church hosted another of its popular high tea events – this time with a lively Western twist.
Guests were invited to dust off their boots, grab their hats, and step into a welcoming Old West atmosphere filled with laughter, friendship, and plenty of delicious treats. Tables were beautifully prepared with scones, sweets, sandwiches, and other homemade goodies, while many ladies and gentlemen fully embraced the theme by arriving in cowboy hats and Western attire.
HAGERSVILLE—Beverly Petheram and Sandra House prepared serving trays filled with sandwiches and homemade treats during Hagersville United Church’s “Welcome to the Old West” High Tea on May 23, 2026. 
HAGERSVILLE—The organizers of the Hagersville United Church’s Western High Tea on May 23, 2026 included: (back row, l-r) Beverly Petheram, Sandra House, Maggie Dennis, Rev. Peggy Bartlett, Jo-Ann Duns, Eileen Schraa, Cathy Gill, Brenda Gallant, (front row) Dianne Strohm, Suzette Raposso, and Dale Vecero. 
HAGERSVILLE—Joan Nixon and her husband George Gildeertson enjoyed themselves at the tea. 
HAGERSVILLE—Over 90 individuals came out to the Western-themed high tea at the Hagersville United Church on May 23, 2026.
—Haldimand Press photos by Kerry J. Newstead.
The event created a warm and cheerful afternoon where community members could gather, visit, enjoy tea, take photos, and create lasting memories.
Hagersville United Church first introduced a themed high tea in February of 2023 with a Valentine’s fundraiser. What began as a creative way to support the church quickly became a much-loved event in the community.
Due to its popularity, the church now hosts a spring high tea each year featuring a different creative theme and a Christmas High Tea during the holiday season. The success of these events comes not only from the wonderful food and decorations, but from the sense of fellowship and joy shared by everyone who attends and volunteers.
The many smiles and Western fashions made for many memorable moments in this year’s “Welcome to the Old West” High Tea, marking another successful and enjoyable event for the community.
