Remembering the J.L. Hudson Company

In February, I read in the local newspaper that the Warren Historical/Genealogical Society was hosting a special program on March 2nd at the Warren Community Center featuring eight tables of artifacts and memorabilia from the legendary department store, J.L. Hudson's, and the presenter would be Michael Hauser.

I first met Mike in 2011, and have always enjoyed his knowledgeable Hudson's programs. His recent presentation didn't disappoint. The turnout exceeded the expectations of those who planned the event with a capacity crowd of about 250 attendees. Hudson's is alive and well in the hearts and memories of southeastern Michiganders!

~ Mike speaking to the attendees ~

The program lasted about an hour and a half, and included three short Hudson's video clips. Mike passed around lots of memorabilia for attendees to see. 

Hudson's Department Store - before it took up an entire block on Woodward Ave.

Of course, I was interested in the poster below since it was from one of Hudson's eateries.

There were so many people looking at the display tables that I didn't attempt to get any photos, but Mike had a ladies glove rack from Hudson's, and a gloves training booklet for the sales staff that piqued my interest.  I have two pair of gloves from Hudson's [never worn, with the price tag still attached]. Mike scanned the booklet and sent it to me. It's very interesting and states: "No outfit is complete without gloves!" I immediately thought of the ladies of Downton Abbey!  The booklet said a pair of vintage opera/evening gloves had 16 buttons - you'd definitely need a button hook for those unless you had a ladies' maid!

Thanks for a great presentation, Mike!  You've inspired me to resume my Hudson's research!

Afternoon Tea at O'Mara's

I have blogged about 17 previous Afternoon Tea experiences at O'Mara's Restaurant in Berkley, MI [beginning March 2013 and onward].  In the past, Chef Anita's cooking demos were the program, but since she's no longer working there, the management changed the format to a different speaker each month, and they asked me to speak about Detroit's beloved J.L. Hudson department store for their October Tuesday teas [14th, 21st, and 28th]. 

The dining room was set up for 52 ladies yesterday.

Fall mums decorated the table tops reminiscent of what might have been on the tables of Hudson's 13th floor Riverview Dining Room.  The green napkins were perfect for the occasion since their color is what I refer to as "Hudson's green."

The tea began with an Apple Cinnamon Scone, and a choice of Black Currant or Cranberry Autumn tea, both from Harney Teas.  I chose Cranberry Autumn.

Next came the soup - Wisconsin Cheddar or Irish Cream of Potato.  I chose Wisconsin Cheddar.

Sandwiches were Chicken Salad on Wheat Rounds, Ham Salad on Rye, and Egg Salad on White, all selections that were on Hudson's Mezzanine Tea Room menus.

~ Ladies enjoying the Hudson's themed menu ~

~ Hudson's famed Maurice Salad ~

While the ladies were enjoying their salad, I began the program.

Hudson's was also known for their Chicken Pot Pie.

A blueberry muffin also accompanied the meal.  A 1942 Mezzanine Tea Room menu listed the price as .10 cents!

~ Dessert was a Banana Split ~

As always, I thoroughly enjoyed sharing information about Hudson's and stimulating fond, nostalgic  memories.  I also had fun wearing my newly acquired "Hudson's green" outfit to really get into the spirit of the presentation.  

One of the afternoon's highlights for me was having a lady come up to me afterwards to ask if I'd like to tour J.L. Hudson's former home on East Grand Boulevard in Detroit.  It's now a convent, and her husband does website work for them, so she said he'd be able to arrange a tour.  I'll keep you posted.

My girlfriend and tea buddy, Lori.