In England, there was a Women’s Petition against coffee. Published in London 1674, the petition claimed that men were spending so much time in the Coffee Houses, not at home until very late and then not fit for anything. I will leave you to work out what it takes great pains to imply.

In Bach’s libretto, Lieschen, daughter of an overbearing father Schlendrian, sings “The sweet taste of coffee is lovelier than a thousand kisses and milder than muscatel wine, I simply must have coffee to put me in a good frame of mind, just pour me out some coffee”. Her father is promising to find her a husband but on condition that she gives up drinking coffee!

In our collection of artefacts relating to the history of coffee and tea, we have a facsimile reproduction of Bach’s original manuscript. It was produced as a limited edition in Vienna in 1923. There is also a copy of The Women’s Petition against coffee and the Men’s answer.

Coffee still arouses passions. It matters to so many people. I have stood behind the counter for nearly seventy years and heard you saying, in so many ways, “Mr Higgins I must have my coffee”.  I know exactly what you mean.

The challenges we have all faced in the year that has passed are the global pandemic Covid 19, and our coming out of the EU. Thank you for bearing with us. For all your custom throughout these challenging times. When Covid 19 struck last year, our supplies had arrived or were arriving in the United Kingdom. This year the situation has been so different. The spread of the virus, sometimes almost unchecked in producing countries has resulted in shipments being delayed, and delayed. For many of you, it has meant us having to talk to you about alternatives to some of your most favourite varieties.

With restrictions now easing, we are looking forward, planning for the Autumn well aware of the challenges that may come.

In his recent blog, David spoke of the last 38 years he and I have worked together saying “Much has changed in that time, but the love of what we do has grown every stronger”.

Our dedicated staff at our Roastery in Whitby and the shop in Duke Street have all caught the spark of that love. The love that has inspired coffee and tea lovers down the ages. With our team, we shall face the challenges and push the boundaries of how we operate. We are always available to serve you to answer your questions, and to meet you face to face at 79 Duke Street.

Your coffee and your tea matter to us. I realised a long time ago that we are all part of a story that began in the mists of time and goes on into the future.

With my very best wishes

Tony Higgins