NEWS

Celebrating 153 years of May breakfasts

Posted 5/3/22

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NEWS

Celebrating 153 years of May breakfasts

ENJOYING THEIR BREAKFAST: With an assortment of eggs, ham, cornbread, clam cakes, pie, coffee and tea, breakfast goers certainly had a diverse selection of food to choose from. (Left side front to back) Kim Calcagno, Jordan Marchetti and Susan Marchetti. (Right side front to back) Christopher Martin, David Stone and Allison Marchetti.

IN CHARGE OF DISHES: Suzanne McMillen was stationed at the dish table where she was in charge of keeping plates, silverware and napkins organized for guests. The May breakfast had 500 tickets available and six seats as each table so individuals were spread out.

GET YOUR ORANGE JUICE HERE: Kathie McDonald (front) and Elaine Procopio handed out orange juice to guests on Monday at Oaklawn Community Baptist Church’s May breakfast.

MORE CLAM CAKES PLEASE: (Bob Kolb and Judy Butzier were outside Oaklwan Community Baptist Church preparing clam cakes for guests. The clam cakes were so popular, that refills were needed in no time. Butzier said clam cakes date back to the breakfast’s original menu when the sea was where individuals would mainly get their food.

Posted Tuesday, May 3, 2022 4:24 pm

RI is known for its May breakfasts. The May breakfast tradition began in 1867 at the Old Quaker Meeting House, the first church in Cranston. Mrs. Wilbur, president of the Searle's Corner Benevolent Society originated the event to raise funds for a new building, borrowing the idea from the English May Day celebration ~ 466 people attended the first May breakfast helping to raise $155.50. On Monday, May 2, the Oaklawn Community Baptist Church held its 153rd May breakfast and prepared to serve 500 guests. (Herald photos)