Deals, squeals emanate from historical society antiques show

History lovers and antiquarians take note: the Chester County Historical Society recently concluded its 36th annual Antiques and Arts Show, which was once again held at the Church Farm School (CFS) on Lincoln Highway in Malvern.

Guests were glad and gracious about getting the chance to return the event to its former haunts after a couple of years at other destinations.

In addition to the highboys, lowboys, ladder back chairs and dining tables that graced the building, one section was purely vintage, expensive and more easily carried home than the larger pieces of furniture and paintings that were on display. There was a pre-Civil War drum that originated in New York and was dated from the early 1850s, while a copper tea canister, hailing from Massachusetts, was in production about 20 years prior to that, so it captured a higher price when the dealing was done.

More than 40 dealers were represented at this year’s “Past, Present & Future”-themed antique extravaganza.

In addition to this yearly antique outreach, CCHS has a full schedule of events to tweak one’s mind. Interested in learning about Philly as a center for postal matters? Consider attending a philatelic lecture on Saturday, April 14, at 1 p.m. On May 12, attend a lecture about the immigration of Germans to this area. Want to find out what Chester County artisans made in the 1600s? Peruse that gallery, and see some of the finest finished furniture in the country.

CCHS also has several unique programs that explore topics from the naturalization of citizens to finding out about forefathers coming to America. Now on display, through the end of June, are articles and artifacts that date from 100 years ago when World War I was finally winding down. As this year marks that anniversary, consider stopping by CCHS to learn how that conflagration affected those living in Chester County in 1918.

For hours of operation and upcoming events, visit chestercohistorical.org.

Sandy Nesbitt, of Newtown Square, and Grete Greenacre, of Malvern, greet their fellow Chester County Historical Society members, Gordon Walker and Bill Ronayne.

Bobby Kennedy and his wife, Nonie, right stop to speak with Susan Cadwalader, of Bryn Mawr, who’s getting advice on antiques from exhibitor James Price.

The Rosens of Glenmoore, Claire and Elizabeth, offer congratulations on his sales to antiques dealer Wesley M. Sessa, of Philadelphia.

Judith Herdeg, of Chadds Ford, attends the 35th annual event with her daughter, Judi Wilson, also of Chadds Ford.

Gabriel Taylor, of West Grove, and Kent Cadwalader, of Bryn Mawr, look over a chest of drawers called a “highboy.”

Chester County Historical Society President Elizabeth Laurent gets a pat on the shoulder for the evening’s success from John Hunt.

Chester Springs residents Rick Weber and his wife, Chris, look for another landscape to add to their gallery of paintings.

Spring City residents and Devon Horse Show devotees John F. Hunt and his wife, Penny, are taken by the bird shield.

PECO’s Customer Systems Strategy & Support representative Charlie White, of Chester Springs, accompanies his daughter, Madeline, to the antiquing event.