By Vilma Sceusa

A Little Bit Of History...

Welcome to our first column. For those of you who have visited the A.T. Stewart Exchange, you know it is a treasure trove of interesting finds. We are a consignment shop whose proceeds help support The Garden City Historical Society. If you're an antique or vintage aficionado, or you're just looking for one-of-a-kind decorative accessories or collectables for your home there truly is something for everyone and you're sure to see something different every week.

Entertaining Tidbits...

Collectibles can certainly turn out to be a solid investment or tell an interesting story. Consider the china sitting in your china closet? Here's an interesting tidbit about Alexander Turney Stewart, the developer of Garden City. Our eleventh President, James K. Polk's (1845 - 1849) china service was purchased from Stewart for $979 through his New York dry goods company, Alexander Stewart & Co. The china is considered to be among the most beautiful of presidential china adorned with a sweet pea and violet and floral motif.

Historically, Presidential china has reflected the personal and public taste of the time. Most examples can be found today on display at museums and at the White House, although Presidential china periodically turns up at public auctions where prices can start at $7,000 apiece! White House china is displayed in many rooms of the house, and the designs and shapes represent the style and cuisine popular at the time. For example, some of the more interesting serving pieces are oyster plates, bonbon stands and cocktail cups.

One of Laura Bush's last acquisitions to the White House collection were two sets of china. One set is a traditional Lenox gilt-edged formal style with a green basket-weave border. The other, the Magnolia Residence China Service designed by Hungarian-born Anna Weatherley of Arlington, is a first in the history of White House China. This china is a less formal pattern created to be used in private quarters. The china was purchased with private funds by the White House Historical Association.

2009 has ushered in a new President and it has been reported that entertainment has been booming under Desiree Rogers, the new social secretary. In her first 60 days at President Barack Obama's White House, Rogers has coordinated more than 50 events! She is also defying tradition by mixing and matching china from different eras at formal dinners.

Start Your Own Traditions...

If you're thinking about collectibles or would like to purchase a one-of-a-kind gift, you'll find beautiful crystal such as Waterford, fine Limoge porcelain and even one-of-a-kind china patterns and flatware. The shop is also filled with wonderful old world hand embroidered linens. If you're a collector of vintage handbags or costume jewelry, you'll find an array of lovely items waiting to be brought home. Purchasing something with a past is always fun and exciting and it is a "green" purchase so you'll be supporting your environment and helping to preserve Garden City's past. Try your hand at mixing and matching and start your own traditions!

The Exchange is located in The Garden City Historical Society Museum at 109 11th Street. Hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday 10 am - 4 pm and Saturdays from 12 pm - 4 pm. Please enter through the rear door of the Museum. Parking is provided for your shopping convenience. For further information, call (516) 746-8900.