Tea Drinking in 18th-Century America: Its Etiquette and Equipage: United States National Museum Bulletin 225, Contributions from the Museum of History and Technology Paper 14, pages 61-91, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, DC, 1961

"Tea Drinking in 18th-Century America: Its Etiquette and Equipage" by Rodris Roth is a historical account written in the mid-20th century. The book delves into the social customs and practices surrounding tea drinking in 18th-century America, emphasizing its significance as both a social event and a status symbol among the upper classes. Roth explores the etiquette involved, the types of equipment used, and how these gatherings reflected the societal norms of the time. The content of the book provides a detailed examination of tea drinking from various perspectives, including the role of the hostess in preparing and serving tea, the significance of the tea table's equipage, and the social interactions that made these gatherings notable. Roth uses a range of historical sources, including paintings and diaries, to illustrate how the ritual of tea drinking served as an essential part of family life and social gatherings. The book also discusses the impact of events like the Boston Tea Party on American customs, highlighting how tea drinking evolved from an elite practice to one that became widespread despite political tensions and changing social dynamics.