Main Street News

Over the centuries, many families have called the Hudson Valley home. From the Vanderbilts to the Roosevelts to the recent wave of people who fled the city during the pandemic, many people have packed up the contents of their homes and relocated here while others have moved away.

In a frenzy to establish a new residence, people often discard items that don’t resonate with them—that antiquated silver tea set, that black beaded necklace with a broken clasp, or the oversize chair upholstered in a dull fabric that just doesn’t suit today’s aesthetic.

That list of items amassed over the years may include some hand-me downs from other relatives, gifts bestowed to us or our relatives from yesteryear, or items that have been stored in our closets, attics, and basements for decades.

Since the spring season is synonymous with cleaning, it’s a good time to clear out those dusty spaces and unload all that unwanted stuff. Before doing so, let the experts at Locust Grove’s Antiques Appraisal Day in Poughkeepsie, NY, determine if any of them can command a lofty price.

Appraisals

On April 14, Historic Locust Grove Estate will host “The Antique Appraiser’s Road Show” from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. All are welcome to attend this event in which Robert Meringolo and his team will provide appraisals for attendees. Bring any questionable items—from small works of art to jewelry, watches, and silver tea sets to coins, toys, records, baseball cards, and beyond.

Antique Appraiser’s Road Show is an Albany-based team of appraisers of art, antiques, and collectibles. Several members of the team will be on hand to assist attendees, bringing expertise from previous work with international auction houses such as Sotheby’s. The upcoming appraisal event marks Meringolo’s third appearance at Locust Grove’s Appraisal Day.

Last year, Meringolo and his team appraised some valuable finds. The mix included a sports jersey, which was signed by baseball great Derek Jeter and some coins that fetched much more than expected.

Meringolo enjoys helping others determine the worth of their wares. He shared a recent story about a woman from Colorado who called him to inquire about a painting she had that was signed by Rockwell Kent—a painter who was born in Tarrytown but settled on a farmstead in the Adirondacks.

On a quest to find out if the painting was an original and had any value, she sent Meringolo a photo of the painting and artist’s signature. “During the height of the pandemic, I boarded a plane to Colorado. The owner told me she had stored the painting in her closet for more than 40 years. It had been given to her as a thank you gift for taking care of an elderly friend,” said Robert Meringolo.

Upon evaluating the work, Meringolo determined that it was an original titled “Moonlight Sleighride”. The painting sold for several thousand dollars. With a little luck, maybe some people from the community will have similar outcomes.

Tickets are required and all ticket holders will have the opportunity to have their treasures verbally valued. All proceeds from the event benefit Locust Grove. For tickets and details on pricing, visit lgny.org/calendar

Mansion Tours

While you are there, take a tour of the antique-filled Italianate Mansion, which boasts 25 rooms and is the former home of Telegraph Inventor, Samuel B. Morse. You’ll see charming items from antique furniture to paintings, ceramics, books, teapots, and more. Guided tours are offered every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. The first tour of the day kicks off at 10:15 a.m. and the last begins at 3:15 p.m. Tickets are available at the Museum Shop and are priced at $20/person for adults and $10/each for kids.

Locust Grove Estate
2683 South Rd.
Poughkeepsie, NY
845.454.4500
www.lgny.org/