The Suffield Historical Society had a bustling day on the King House property on May 11. Sustainable Suffield’s town-wide tag sale was a first-ever event here and a one-of-a-kind fundraising opportunity for the Historical Society. We had several tables of items and a spread of horse tack outside the barn, as well as unique items like a five-foot cast iron parlor stove, old farm tools, maps of Suffield, pictures and postcards inside. These items, along with our assortment of unusual picture frames and Suffield collectibles, drew a steady stream of visitors. Congratulations to those who purchased hidden gems from our selection!
The volunteers overseeing the tag sale and guiding tours through the King House Museum were particularly thrilled by the number of visitors who came for the sale and stayed for the tour. Inside the barn, shoppers were pleasantly distracted by the ongoing display of carriages, wagons, and sleighs. The frequent exclamations of “I never knew this was here!” and the surprise at learning about Suffield’s tobacco and cigar manufacturing history added to the atmosphere of discovery and engagement.
Given the success of the barn and tag sale, we will continue to welcome potential buyers periodically through the summer. We appreciate those who accepted our fundraising prices, and we were happy to negotiate for other reasonable amounts of support. Many items were not sold, more could be added, and prices are likely to drop. If you missed us the first time or if you regret not buying something you liked, we will be open on the third Saturday of the summer months: June 15, July 20, August 17 and September 21 during the hours of the King House Museum tours, i.e., 1 to 4 p.m.
If you have never visited the King House Museum or your last visit was over a few years ago, you are in for a treat this summer. A great deal has changed since the arrival of our curator, Christine Ritok, two years ago. In addition to our special exhibit, Suffieldiana, we have recently added several pieces of furniture and a restored portrait to our indoor collection. Outside, you’ve got to see the refurbished Greek Revival privy. By the end of the summer, we expect to unveil the portraits of Thaddeus and Elizabeth Leavitt that the Historical Society purchased in March, thanks to donations made in response to a last-minute appeal. Your continued support is crucial for us to preserve and share Suffield’s rich history.