Lewes Historical Society Antique Shop to open in September
The Lewes Historical Society announced it will open an antique shop this September on the corner of Savannah Road and Third Street in Lewes.
“All profit will go toward the society’s preservation and restoration efforts and its collections,” said James Abbott, executive director, Lewes Historical Society.
Local resident Mike Furnari will manage the antique shop. Furnari, who recently joined the society staff, said he anticipates the shop hours will reflect those of other society buildings and museums, which operate from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday to Saturday. Appointments may be scheduled outside of these hours.
The Lewes Historical Society is seeking donations of well-cared-for items from the public and its membership. Donations such as furniture, lamps, pictures, paintings, rugs, watches and jewelry will be appreciated and will allow the donor a charitable tax deduction.
“We would love contributions of pieces with a historical value, as well as objects that may not have such significance. We’d like to offer the community a comprehensive collection of interesting items and antiques,” said Furnari. “Sometimes we receive a generous donation of an article that does not necessarily prove in keeping with the LHS’s collection or mission. We are excited to now be able to use these pieces to support the long-term objectives of the Lewes Historical Society,” he said.
The Zwaanendael Club building will house the new antique shop at 302 Savannah Road. It was constructed and opened in 1898 by the Sussex Trust Title and Safe Deposit Company. Following the bank’s departure in 1911, the building became a store selling millinery and notions, a meeting place for Girl Scouts and religious organizations, and a visitor center.
The GFWC Zwaanendael Women's Club used the building as its meeting place from 1929 until the club sold it in 2016 to the Lewes Historical Society.
The idea of turning the Zwaanendael Club building into an antique shop came about following the relocation of the society’s museum shop and information center to the Ryves Holt House on Second Street.
“Many people are downsizing,” said Abbott. “The opportunity to offer the LHS as a responsible entity to receive donations and at the same time help to fund our programs, restoration efforts and public education, seemed like a good fit.”
Donations to the society’s antique shop are welcomed. However, they must be vetted by shop manager Mike Furnari. To make an appointment, contact the Lewes Historical Society at 302-645-7670 or email michaelfurnari@historiclewes.org.
The Lewes Historical Society promotes and advocates the preservation, interpretation and cultural enrichment of the Lewes region through museum exhibitions, educational programs, historical research and publications.
For more information, go to historiclewes.org.
