The Marblehead Museum hosted its fifth annual Great Treasure Sale in the Lee Mansion Gardens.
“It is one of the biggest fundraisers every year,” said Lauren McCormack, executive director of the museum.
Featured was a curated collection that included vintage, antique and collectible items, such as books and Marblehead ephemera. Small 18th century furniture, artwork, maps and vintage household items, as well as vintage clothes quilts, and accessories were available for sale.
“Hundreds of interesting items were donated,” said McCormack. “Some people come for specific Marblehead-centric finds.”
Owner and Head Designer at Room Tonic Susan Bott said she goes every year. She said, “For some people this is a sport. It’s entertainment and excitement. It’s the thrill of the hunt.”
Bott said she enjoys rehabbing items; giving tired items new life. She said, “You can repurpose things by giving the item a fresh coat of paint and adding new hardware. It then creates a unique, bespoke piece.”
This year Bott found some small porcelain boxes. She said, “My clients love the one-of-a-kind things you find at these types of sales.”
Last year Bott had a big find. She said, “I found an equestrian painting for $40 and it was worth a heck of a lot more.”
A cross section of people from New England are the typical crowd the treasure sale draws.
The sale also creates a sense of community. Bott said, “While you wait in line you meet your neighbors and discuss what you found last year and what you hope to find this year.”
All items were donated and all proceeds benefit the educational programs of Marblehead Museum, a nonprofit organization. Learn more at marbleheadmuseum.org.