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the TEACUP TREE
WELCOME TO THE TEA CUP TREE on Clarence Street, James Bay, Victoria, B.C.
Imagine sitting under an ornamental plum tree and having your afternoon tea!
Well, welcome to the “Tea Cup Tree” located on Clarence Street in the quiet, quaint area of James Bay, Victoria.
The family of Nairn Wilson and Rory Palmer decorated and dedicated the plum tree with porcelain tea cups in the memory of Rory’s much loved and respected grandmother Eleanor Palmer 1900- 1985. During the 50’s and 60’s Mrs. Palmer was known as a wonderful and caring teacher at Central Junior, now Central Middle School, located in the heart of Victoria. Eleanor taught some of the most challenging and vulnerable boys who were not ‘doing well’ in the regular classroom setting. As well, she taught several blocks of art. Along with the enjoyment of her afternoon tea, Eleanor loved travel and lead summer tours to several world ports such as China, ……. Eleanor hosted many well-known clients, one of whom was the famous actor Orson Wells.
Missing his grandmother, Rory gently hung a delicate, beautiful porcelain cup to the ornamental tree out front of their home, to remember his special and well beloved ‘Granny Palmer’. Nairn and others soon followed in remembrance of their grandmothers and the tree began to grown and sprout many, many tea cups. Today there are dozens of tea cups which dozens of curious tourist, tour groups and locals come by to enjoy.
Once again, much like ‘Granny Palmer did’, the Wilson-Palmer family have begun an out-reach project which supports vulnerable students in Sooke, Victoria and Saanich schools by teaming with artsREACH, a not-for-profit, which provides free cultural workshops in Dance, Painting, Printmaking, Clay and Theatre. Rory Palmer is an avid recycler and he donates the proceeds to artsREACH and other groups supporting children. Please, if you love the idea of the Tea Cup Tree and the notion of supporting vulnerable children, consider supporting Granny Palmer's favourite children's charity - artsREACH.
ABOUT artsREACH
artsREACH is a not for profit organization created to provide high quality visual and performing arts training to young children. We deliver free 60-90 minute workshops in public elementary schools identified as having a higher percentage of vulnerable families.
Research has shown that an involvement in the arts increases a person’s capacity to think critically and act independently. Through artsREACH, children have access to an education in the arts which allows them to benefit from critical life skills. Through these workshops, children will:
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develop artistic and creative skills in a positive learning environment
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gain an appreciation for the arts
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improve their self-confidence and self-esteem
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develop teamwork, communication and personal management skills
Since 2005, more than 31,700 children have participated in an artsREACH workshop delivered at their public elementary school. The workshops are taught by professional artists, actors, and dancers.
Registered Charity #:
86388 1074 RR0001
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