The 45th Chappaqua Antiques Show
By Ronni Diamondstein • Photo by Bill Bramswig
You never know what you’re going to find when you go to an antique show, but one thing is certain, you are sure to have a great time at the 45th annual Chappaqua Antiques Show the first weekend in November. Sponsored by the New Castle Historical Society, “There is something for everyone,” says Betsy Guardenier NCHS President. “It’s a wonderful community event that benefits the New Castle Historical Society.” This year’s Honorary Chair is Dr. Kenneth Jackson, longtime Chappaqua resident, historian, author and ultimate New York-ologist.
“No matter what kind of décor you have, you’ll find something,” says Guardenier who has chaired the show three times. With more than 50 quality dealers there is a wide variety of merchandise including decorative posters, home furnishings, fine jewelry, silver, maps and books, folk art and unique collectibles. Don’t miss “Gold in Your Attic” which started as a little table 20 years ago and has grown to a booth. Filled with eclectic donations from members of the NCHS and others, it is chocked full of treasures. Items include George Jensen silver, Orrefors glassware and vintage handbags. “A big find this year was the donation of 3-foot Green Philadelphia glass vases,” says Fran Osborne who is coordinating the collection this year. Items have been donated to the NCHS or are there on consignment. “You just never know what you’ll discover,” says Osborne, “last year we sold a Louis Vuitton music box and a 35-carat aquamarine and diamond ring.”
You’ll find more much more than Americana. “From tiny teaspoons and jewelry to large armoires and rugs there is quite a variety from around the world,” say Buffy Haas, who along with Tess Cerra chairs this year’s show. There are Asian Art imports, English Silver, Oriental rugs, French prints, and Japanese jade carvings. “ This fall, a new dealer from Chappaqua, Dan Levitz and his ‘Things Japanese’ will have a spot specializing in wood block prints and Japanese art and antiques,” says Haas.
A big draw is the gourmet café and homemade dessert table with delectable treats. Other highlights are consultations with certified appraiser, Jon Felz and free advice from interior designer Cami Weinstein. There are door prizes and a raffle. “The Raffle has a wide array of fabulous donations from businesses, restaurants and groups in town,” says Guardenier.
The event is the NCHS’s biggest fundraiser and the proceeds support the society’s programs and outreach to the local schools. Guardenier offers this advice: “Go with an open mind and you’re going to have a fun day—and bring the kids!” The 45th Chappaqua Antique Show takes place on Saturday, November 3 and Sunday, November 4 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Westorchard School, 25 Granite Road, off Route 133 in Chappaqua. For more information and for a discount admission coupon, go to www.newcastlehs.org/chappaqua-antique-show
Ronni Diamondstein, owner of Maggie Mae Pup Reporter is a Chappaqua based freelance writer, PR consultant, award-winning photographer and a School Library Media Specialist and teacher who has worked in the US and abroad.
