Most folks love new things and I am no exception, especially if it’s a gadget for the kitchen or pair of shoes. But what really makes my heart beat fast is something old. Something that has stood the test of time, been loved and cared for and has a well-worn patina.
Bruce was brought up in a household that always loved antiques. But I didn’t have much exposure to them until I met him. And so a whole new world opened up when we started dating. And my love affair with all things old is still going strong.
Friends were visiting last weekend. They started out as guests in 2002, and after spending many weekends antique shopping, we have become friends. These are dangerous folks because they have elevated the art of buying antiques to a level of incredible taste and style. They asked us to go to the VillageBarn Antique Shop in nearby Churchtown. While we had been there before, they said that the quality of the antiques was remarkable. And so we innocently set out for a quick visit.
And there it was. Across the room. It was love at first sight.
Bruce and I have always wanted a grandfather clock, and we could kick ourselves for passing one up at auction several years ago. They seem such a distant relative from the modern high-tech digital clock. And to have one that is beautiful, functional and patiently ticks – a piece of furniture instead of an accessory.
And so we talked….well, not for long. But we did try to learn what we could.
It was made in 1820 in Philadelphia by Thomas F. Joyce. This is the year that:
– Maine is admitted as the 23rd state,
– Tomatoes are proven to be non-poisonous,
– Missouri imposes a $1 bachelor tax on unmarried men between 21 and 50, and
– 67 Philadelpians die of yellow fever in September.
A different time indeed. You can’t help but wonder who it was that first wound this clock. And so it was decided, we’d take it home. Now began the process of taking it apart,
inluding the pendulum
the weights
and the face. We learned how to set it, wind it,
and level it.
with plenty of ceiling space
Not in the market for a clock? No problem. The Village Barn is only ten minutes from the inn, is open every day but Tuesday and Wednesday and has so many wonderful items. It’s located in a restored century old tobacco warehouse in Lancaster County.
We’ve bought several antiques before, but on my list right now are:
An adorable French lunchbox – the green one on the left
This antique tray
This really neat apple butter bucket (not sure what I’d do with it as it is REALLY big!)
and I loved these boots as well. But our friends bought those, so I’ll get to see them whenever we visit. Here are some more items that you might like!
But you are warned. Visiting this shop may result in falling in love with something irresistable, something you may have never seen…..something old.
