51st Annual Delaware Show

VOLUNTEERING: A LABOR OF LOVE Harry and Jeanne Gordon attended their first Delaware Antiques Show in 1970, at Wilcastle Center. Almost half a century later, the couple is celebrating their 26th year as volunteers at the annual event. Harry’s service with the Gentlemen’s Committee began in 1988, when the show was held at DuPont Country Club. The committee was so named to differentiate its function as “door men” from the duties of the women greeters and receptionists. When the event moved to the Tatnall School in 1995, it was determined that a Visitors Bar would be a welcome addition and income-producer. The Gentlemen’s Committee stepped up and served as bartenders, with Harry as Chair of the group. The move to the Riverfront in 2001 put the bartenders out of a job but offered an opportunity for the committee to reinvent itself. An increase in the number of dealers as well as entrances to the larger facility suggested the need for management of the arrival/departure process. Thus, since the move to the present location, the orderly move-in/move-out of dealer wares has been under the purview of the Gentlemen’s Committee. Jeanne’s involvement with the show also began in 1988, when members of the Winterthur guiding staff were offered the opportunity to volunteer as part of the Hospitality Committee, affording dealers knowledgeable assistance if needed. As show locations have changed, so have the responsibilities of the committee. The group incorporates greeters, information sources, and dealer liaison—the vital communication with dealers during the event to ensure that their needs are met. Jeanne now serves as Dealer Liaison Chair. When asked why they have continued to volunteer year after year, Jeanne’s response was heartfelt: “We believe in the show’s connection with Winterthur. I have been a Winterthur guide for 43 years and appreciate the museum’s cultural and educational importance to the community. Harry and I value the participation of the finest and most reputable antiques dealers in America and the support of the many members of the Winterthur staff who, combined with a group of like- minded volunteers, make an effective team. The result is a most successful event.” We couldn’t agree more. — 153 —