Society welcomes treasure hunters

46th annual antiques fair marks summer’s end Madison >> The Madison Historical Society’s 46th annual antiques fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 26. This rain-or-shine event has been a rite of passage for many New Englanders who mar

Started in 1972, vendors of fine antiques, collectibles, and re-purposed goods from across the region come together for this one-day event. Known for its quality exhibitors and fine selection of goods, the fair has become one of the most anticipated outdoor antiques markets on the shoreline.

“Last year’s fair attracted more than 1,100 antique enthusiasts and treasure hunters — a testament to the work of the dedicated staff and volunteers who plan for months to make this event a success,” said fair organizer and MHS trustee Lyle Cubberly.

One of the area’s foremost antiques and collectibles appraisers, Jay St. Mark, will be on hand to assess the value of family heirlooms. “He has extensive academic credentials and has participated in many appraisal days. The cost for a verbal appraisal from St. Mark is $10 per object or three objects for $20.

“His presence at the fair is sure to be a big draw to the public,” said MHS Events Coordinator Beth Wardwell.

Another highlight this year will be the return of “Booth Chats” with 15 talks offered by exhibitors. Veteran dealers Elaine and Jerry Berman of Twentieth Century Ltd, specializing in 1930s to 1950s kitchen and barware, will host a talk at 1 p.m. on midcentury antiques and collecting. Other chats will be posted

on the MHS website.

Just steps from the fair is Lee’s Academy, home to both the society’s administrative offices and its exhibition hall. There visitors can tour the awardwinning exhibition, “Over Here, Over There: Madison in World War I. This collaborative effort of the MHS and the Charlotte L. Evarts Memorial Archives is an exploration of the experiences of one small town and its people during World War I. Its focus is on the individual stories of those who served overseas and those who remained at home. The exhibit is on view every Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. through November.

Admission to the fair is $7 per person; children 12 and younger are free. Gates open at 9 a.m. A coupon offering $1 off the admission price can be found by visiting the MHS website at www.madisonhistory.org.

For more information on the fair or other events hosted by the Society, call 203-245-4567.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Visitors mingle during last year’s antiques fair in Madison. The 46th annual fair, hosted by the Madison Historical Society, draws new and returning visitors for a day of treasure hunter, expert appraisals, booth chats by exhibitors and a chance to see...

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS The Madison Antiques Show will feature many collectibles and treasures, appraisals, Booth Chats and the historical society’s exhibit.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS Finds like these will be in abundance at the upcoming antiques fair in Madison.