Victorian Tea Gala - Honoring Mayor Shawn Reilly

This year's Gala is one you won't want to miss as we honor Mayor Shawn Reilly on Wednesday, April 8, 2026. The afternoon Victorian Tea will include a light roasting of Reilly as well as a silent auction. The event benefits our beloved Waukesha County Historical Society and Museum.

VICTORIAN TEA CULTURE
In the Victorian era, tea was more than a beverage—it was a gracious pause in the day, a time for conversation, connection, and community. Afternoon tea reflected the values of the age: civility, hospitality, and the belief that gathering together mattered.

Victorian teas featured strong black teas served with simple elegance, accompanied by light fare such as sandwiches, scones, and cakes. In places like Waukesha’s famed Springs era, tea parties were a popular social custom, welcoming visitors and residents alike to share in both refreshment and refined company.

Our Victorian Tea Gala honors that tradition. It also reflects the spirit of leadership that brings people together, making this a fitting way to celebrate Mayor Shawn Reilly and his enduring commitment to community, connection, and public service.

THE HONORABLE MAYOR SHAWN REILLY
As he steps down from office, we’re honoring Waukesha Mayor Shawn Reilly for his years of service to the city. Reilly has been mayor since April of 2012.

When Reilly decided to run for mayor, he had to convince his mother, Peggy, who told him, “Oh, my God, Shawn, why do you want that job?” She thought it would be a big headache.

Reilly’s accomplishments center on downtown revitalization, significant infrastructure projects like the Great Lakes Water Diversion, enhanced resident communication, improved public safety through added officers, and fostering economic growth by supporting local businesses and implementing performance-based pay for city employees. He focused on completing major city initiatives, strengthening community engagement, and guiding Waukesha's strategic development.

While Reilly is known to be “very direct with no nonsense and no drama,” as Alderwoman Alicia Halvensleben put it, he also has a sense of humor.

SPRINGS EXHIBIT

This year's Gala coincides with the opening of our new Springs Exhibit. You will enjoy time in the exhibit prior to the event. Sponsorship of the event includes a full-year sponsorship of the exhibit, helping bring stories to life, supporting the research, design, and curation that make each display meaningful and memorable.