Orange Historical Society debuts timeless porch social

ORANGE – Fairgoers of all ages seemed to be up for a “historic” good time as they ventured to the uppermost tip of downtown North Main Street to enjoy an, as advertised, “old-fashioned porch visit” hosted by annual Third Thursday Street Fair newcomer, the Orange Historical Society.

On the evening of June 15, scores of adults and youngsters visited the expansive wraparound porch of the 19th century museum located at 41 North Main St. There, they socialized over complimentary cookies and pink lemonade served from a crystal pitcher replenished many times over by society President Kathryn Schiappa. All the while, member Terry Reed, seated casually in a cane chair, played an acoustic banjo and sang American favorites from bygone centuries. Visitors also shopped for Historical Society shirts and hats for sale, purchased heating raffle tickets, signed up to join the society, and left donations.

In addition to Schiappa, the evening’s hostesses included Vice-President Ingrid Pollard, Secretary Sandra Eklund (who dressed in 19th century-style ladies’ summer apparel) and board members Ann Reed, who had hand-painted event lawn signage reminiscent of vintage circus art, and Lurene Hall — while Frank Schiappa and Walter Pollard served as gentlemen greeters.

The Historical Society represented just one of several new participants added to the annual summer series when lower North Main Street businesses were invited to join in the downtown-wide festivities this year.

Others included Quabbin Harvest, whose proprietor, Julie Davis, had led the North Main Street roundup, the Dance Studio, and the First Universalist Church.

This season’s subsequent fair dates are July 20 and Aug. 17.

]]>