1

The people of Aurora were always welcome at the Manor. The Hillary family never locked the door unless they were going to be out of town. The Manor was always full of people to entertain. The Hillarys loved hosting guests from out of town and holding parties for local friends.

2

The Hillary family entertaining guests in their home
Circa 1890-1910
Hillary House, Yonge Street, Aurora, Ontario, Canada

Credits:
Aurora Historical Society

3

Culture of Smoking

During the Victorian Era, smoking of tobacco in pipes and cigars was mainly a male habit. However, by the mid-20th century, as smoking became socially acceptable for women it became a symbol of women's gained rights. Smoking was considered to be a sophisticated activity for adult men and women of all social classes and it was a common element while entertaining guests.

4

Men's Smoking Pipe by Zephyr
Early 20th Century
France

Credits:
Aurora Historical Society

5

Cigarette Holder by Folda
1940-1950

Credits:
Aurora Historical Society

6

They enjoyed playing card games with their company over afternoon tea.

7

Box of Playing Cards
1950-1960
Canada

Credits:
Aurora Historical Society

8

Bridge Score Tallying Sheet
1970-1980
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Credits:
Aurora Historical Society

9

The Hillary women were commonly found sewing and knitting in the House.

The Hillary women were very handy, making much of the family's clothing and decorative household linens by hand. The Aurora Historical Society has an extensive collection of the sewing tools and supplies that belonged to the Hillary women throughout the many decades they inhabited the house.