In Delaware, folks have an affinity for old things. After all, it’s the First State, the oldest of the 13 original colonies.
So it’s no surprise the Delaware Antiques Show is one of the nation’s premier venues for antiques, featuring 60 meticulously vetted dealers. The annual event, celebrating its 55th year, benefits Winterthur, the museum and country estate that is home to Henry Francis du Pont’s exceptional collection of American furniture and decorative arts.
At the show, you will find such treasures as chiming tall-case clocks with six-figure price tags, maritime paintings, vintage jewelry, rare firearms and delicate stemware that has miraculously survived centuries of wining and dining. My personal favorite: 18th century highboys crafted from tiger maple. For my money, it’s the world’s most exquisite wood.

The preview party gives supporters a chance to buy before the show opens to the public. It’s also a wonderful opportunity for the locals to dress up, connect with friends, enjoy abundant fine food and drink and people watch. Here I am with David Wunsch, director of the Delaware Geological Survey, who deals with some of the earth’s oldest elements.

The first year I attended, I rubbed elbows with Leigh Keno of the Keno twins on the PBS show Antiques Roadshow. We were both putting together mini roast beef sandwiches. He asked me to please pass the horseradish. I did. A cherished Delaware Antiques Show moment.

Make your own moment. The show runs through Nov. 11 at the Chase Center on the Riverfront.