Fall 2012 - Pennsylvania Questers

The Pennsylvania
Vol. XXXI, No. 2
Fall 2012
Questers
Newsletter
Pennsylvania Questers Highlights
&
P’s Q’s
Inside:
President’s Message .........................2
Vice President’s Message ...............2
Submission to P’s & Q’s ....................3
Bess Barden Society News .............3
Spring Conference Baskets ............4
International Convention News ..4-5
In Memoriam ......................................5
Anniversary Scrolls ...........................5
Chapter News .............................. 6-10
Elected Officers ......................... 11-12

Dates
to Remember:
Dates to Remember:
2 Fall 2012
September 18, 2012
Fall Council Meeting
William Penn Inn
October 9, 2012
Northeast Area Meeting
Lake Naomi
October 13, 2012
Western Area Meeting
October 18, 2012
Quester Bus Trip
International Christmas Museum
October 24, 2012
Bess Bardens Luncheon
William Penn Inn
February 1, 2013
Irene Doll Wenzell Day
March 28, 2013
Central Area Meeting
Shippensburg University
April 17, 2013
Annual Spring Conference
Presidential Caterers, Norristown
May 2-6, 2013
International Convention
Rogers, Arkansas
PA Questers Web Site:
www.PAQuesters.com
International Quester Web Site:
http:/www.questers1944.org
Password: Heritage
(Read your Quester Quarterly
at this site)
President’s Message
Nancy Bergere
It is with gratitude and excitement that I begin this
journey with all of you Pennsylvania Questers as your State
President. Bess Bardens, our founder, started her first chapter
by enthusiastically sharing information about a syrup jug. Many
Questers have been to my home to learn about early lighting.
Call to schedule a time, or I am willing to bring some of my
program to you. I would like to just visit chapters, too, to listen
and share ideas.That is the fun part, sharing our knowledge
or special interests with other Questers, mere participation is
not enough. We need to grow. A flintstone struck by a piece of
iron will create a spark. Several sparks create a flame, enough
to light a candle. We need some sparks. We need light. We
cannot, should not, remain the “best kept secret”. Our Quester
pamphlets have a door on the cover. We need to open the
door.
Many chapters have room for one or two new mem-
bers. We must start new chapters, too. Your many years as a Quester, your few years
as one, qualify you to mentor interested persons. Be pro-active about Questers. Strike a
spark. Questers are in the dark. Nobody can see us. That has to change.
PA Questers have supported many wonderful preservation and restoration projects,
preserving history for generations to come. The next generation may not want collections
or antiques, but they are interested in preserving and revitalizing their communities, our
communities. We need each other. We are pro-active about our past. Let us be pro-active
about the future of Questers.
Thanks for being dedicated Questers. Let’s work together to light the spark. Open
the door. Invite prospective Questers to hear your speaker. Publicize your visits to historic
places and your restoration projects. Let’s find ways to market Questers. Together, our
sparks will create a lot of light.
Let’s tell everyone about the” best kept secret”.
Sincerely,
Nancy Bergere
Vice President’s Message
Dear Fellow Questers,
As incoming First Vice President, I am the Organization Chairman for the state,
responding to inquiries about Quester membership and organizing new chapters. We
are exploring new avenues to attract interested members. In addition, I will assist the
president, Nancy Bergere in any way.
While it is important to seek out and establish new chapters, I feel it is essential
to support and nurture existing ones as well. If your chapter is in need of help, do not
hesitate to ask.
I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible in the coming months.
Regards,
BJ Ross
Book Review: “Where Valor Proudly Sleeps”
Contributed by Nancy Bergere
Author: Leslie Wayne Salsbury with Leeanne LaRose
Publisher: Xlibris
The author is a Civil War re-enactor with the 104th Regiment from Bucks County, PA.
He has written an historic novel. The main characters are a young man and young woman
who happen to live in the Doylestown area of Bucks County. Much of the story moves
forward through the lovers’ correspondence. The young man volunteers to join the 104th Regiment in Doylestown. The battles described by the young Benjamin Waynerwright in
his letters no doubt were those experienced by many young men during the Civil War.
The author’s research of the battles of this particular regiment are historically accurate.
It adds to the interest and authenticity of the times recorded through their letters. I liked
the ending too. Men might like more history and fewer letters, but it is a novel. It is an
enjoyable read.
Les Salsbury and the 104th partnered with seven Quester Chapters to raise enough
monies to restore the actual 104th New Feature New Feature New Feature New Feature New Feature
Regimental Flag. It will be on exhibition again at the
Mercer Museum, Doylestown, in 2013. Watch for the opening of the Civil War Exhibit.

Submission to P’s & Q’s
1. Please submit your article by the deadline
via email, if possible. Please send
articles as attachments. If you do not
have access to email, please type article.
2. Please email pictures as an attachment,
not in the body of the email. Please
include captions describing pictures
regardless of how they are submitted.
3. Please include your phone number in
case we have a question.
4. If you have an idea for an article, please
feel free to call.
5. Information sheets are enclosed in the
President’s packet.
6. We will also be very happy to receive
“letters to the editor” with your questions
and/or comments.
Jane Kieser
2104 Brittany Pointe
Lansdale, PA 19446
267-263-4916
Jen248@comcast.net
The deadline for the Spring 2013 Issue
is February 1, 2013.
Treasure Table
Spring Conference
April 17, 2013
The Preservation & Restoration
Grant Fund again gained a nice
boost this year, thanks to you fellow
Questers. We again look forward to
another prosperous and fun year with
the donations of your quality items
that you feel you no longer need or
want. Beginning in February, please
call for information regarding several
drop-off locations and possible pick
up if necessary. We would appreciate
your clean and unblemished items being
dropped off before April 15, 2013.
See you at the Presidential where
“it’s fun to search and a joy to find” at
the Treasure Table!
Nancy Tomlinson,
215-297-8211, nancyt65@comcast.net
Sonja Marino,
215-968-5601, sojo56@comcast.net
Arkansas, “A Gem of a State”
Save the Dates: May 2—6, 2013
Fellow Questers, be sure to mark May 2—6, 2013, on your calendar as reserved for a
“gem” of a Questers International Convention hosted by the Arkansas Questers. Embassy
Suites, in Rogers, AR, will be providing the hotel accommodations, which include an
adjoining sitting room to your bedroom, complimentary “cooked to order” breakfasts, a
fitness center, spa, pool, and excellent dining facilities. Room rates are $144.00 plus tax.
Tours will include a “Top 10 Most Haunted Places in the United States” Victorian hotel,
Civil War battlefield sites, 1830’s period homes via a 1920’s era train, Har-Ber Village
on the Lake of the Cherokees, Questers’ homes, a Native American museum and much,
much more. Arkansas Questers are very excited to showcase our newest “gem,” Crystal
Bridges Museum, which is the hottest star on the national art museum scene. Experience
the collaboration of Colonial era to Contemporary American masterworks housed within
the unique setting of six walking trails.
Don't forget to pack your “bling” for the President’s Reception on Friday night and plan
on having a “gem” of a Farewell Party Monday evening with old time Ozark Mountain
folk music.
Bess Bardens Society
Bess Bardens Society will hold its Fall Meeting and Luncheon on October 24, 2012,
at 10:30 a.m. at the William Penn Inn. Our speaker will be Donna Aviles, who will present
her award-winning program “The Children of The Orphan Train.” Learn the history of this
75-year “social experiment,” now recognized as our country’s first foster care system,
which transported 250,000 homeless children from the streets of New York City to farming
communities of the Midwest.
Our members will hear the first-person account of orphan train rider, Oliver Nordmark,
as he recalls his experience of traveling with his brother to the small town of Bern,
Kansas.
Bess Bardens members, please save the October 24 date. Your invitation to the
luncheon will be mailed in mid-September.
If you have served as president of your Quester chapter, you are eligible to join Bess
Bardens Society. There is a one-time membership fee of $10.00. For more information
call Hope McCaffrey, 610 409 2915 or email Katesnan@aol.com.
2012 Opportunity Drawing
Diane Bridi, Chairperson
The Opportunity Drawing was held at the Spring Luncheon. The prizes were won
by Steeplechasers chapter, Franklin Rockers chapter, and Spoke and Handle chapter.
A profit of $2,341.19 was made for our State Preservation and Restoration Grant Fund.
Thanks to all the chapters and members who participated in the drawing.
Grants 2012
Karen Goeckler
The PA 2012 Grant year has been another successful one!.Through the hard work of
our chapters, 35 grants were awarded. Congratulations to all! The Quester Grant program
is the highlight of our organization and its goals. Many historic sites are able to continue
due to our efforts. It has been said that if you look at the small print on the information
listed at historic sites, many times, The PA Questers are included as donors. We are proud
of our chapters and their dedication. The Grant program will continue toward providing
Restoration and Acquisition for worthy sites through the generosity of our members.
Thank you again for all your support.
continued on page 10
Chapter Program Books
PA Questers received three Program Book Awards out of seventeen awarded. The
following chapters received the awards:
Moland House #1423, Best Photography
Washington Crossing #1483, Best Graphics and Design
Weldon House #212, Best ½ Page
Fall 2012
3

News from The International Convention 2012, Baltimore, Maryland
Submitted by Nancy Scharff and Dot Barlow, Convention Chairs
Contributing Reporter: Mary Jane Woll, Marquis #1461. (Thank you, Mary Jane)
Baltimore Marriott Waterfront Hotel was the place, and Maryland
“America In Miniature” was the theme of this 62 nd International
Questers Convention. The Baltimore Harbor area takes on a
unique feel and experience with its many attractions, restaurants,
museums, and hotels. We loved the location. Strolling along the
harbor-front and meeting fellow Questers along the way, or just
sitting on a bench overlooking the harbor, was sheer delight. Our
days started and ended on the bright side.
Visiting the Inner
Harbor area, Fell’s
Point and Fort McHenry
by water taxi was
not only convenient,
but lots of fun. During
our history, Fort
McHenry in the War
of 1812, successfully
defended Baltimore
Harbor from an at-
tack by the British
Navy. We walked into
the fort and watched
with joy and pride as
A Big Thank You to These Quester Chapters who Donated Baskets that were Raffled Off at
the 2012 Spring Conference
Contributed by Viki Turner, Freedom Valley#395
• Ann’s Choice #1479
• Blue Bell #82
• Brittany Belles #1405
• Brown’s Folly #1373
• Byers Choice
• Como #81
• Country Collectors #1024
• Damian House #754
• Dark Valley #222
• Duffryn Mawr #184
• Fairwold #1316
• Featherbed Hill #501
• Fonthill #254
• Franklin Rockers #1458
• Freedom Valley #395
• Gaudy Dutch #270
4 Fall 2012
School children rolling up a huge flag at Fort
McHenry”
school children in the center parade ground were rolling up a huge
American Flag. A ranger directed them in the correct procedure
and reminded them that Francis Scott Key had witnessed the battle
there and then wrote “The Star-Spangled Banner” which became
our National Anthem in 1931.
Spending time in the Fort, touring the enlisted men’s barracks,
and Jr. Officers and Commanding Officers Quarters, was very interesting.
In the Flag gallery, there is a silver punch bowl, a replica
of a gift made to Major George Armistead by the appreciative
citizens of Baltimore. This replica was a gift from the Maryland
State Questers.
Our visit in the Fort’s Visitors Center was highlighted by a very
informative movie about the battle and our flag, and singing our National
Anthem with all the other visitors. A special time and memory!
• Glen-Wynne #331
• Gwynedd #1464
• Hague’s Mill #11
• Heritage #1
• Hope Lodge #408
• John Craig’s Tavern #1390
• Keysone Gleaners #1232
• King’s Path #436
• Kit-Han-Ne #408
• Lamplighter #117
• Lingohocken #495
• Livezey #21
• Lydia Darragh #156
• Marquis #1461
• Mayflower #278
• Mercer Mile #854
• Militia Hill #5
• Moland House #1423
• Museum Pieces #1413
• Myrtilla #355
There were many varied tours…
Edgar Allan Poe gave us a surprise visit while we were on a tour
of the catacombs of Westminster Church and his grave site. Poe,
portrayed by David Keltz, did a superb reading of his most popular
poem “The Raven,” which tells the story of a man who gets a
late-night visit from a mysterious bird that speaks only one word:
“Nevermore.” Not a
simple story! We enjoyed
seeing other
Poe Collections at the
Enoch Pratt Library.
Ab out an
hour from Baltimore
is the Riversdale
Mansion, a National
Historic Landmark.
This stucco-covered
brick plantation,
which the Mary-
Poe’s favorite “watering hole”
• Neshamini Creekers #1460
• Norriton #396
• Paoli Local #1401
• Peaceable Kingdom #144
• Penn Marydel #896
• Penn’s New Towne #500
• Pennypack #1386
• Perkiomendahl #719
• Pilgrim #237
• Potpourris #884
• Quaker City #1300
• Red Rose #1470
• Rittenhouse #252
• Round Meadow Run #126
• Sally Wister #95
• Salt Cellar #329
• Spring Hill #908
• Spring House #27
• Stenton #52
• Sullivan Trail #1138
land State Questers
adopted as a State
Preservation and
Restoration project, was built between 1801 and 1807. Our docent
gave us an in-depth tour and the history of the woman, Rosalie
Calvert, whose home it was during the Battle of Baltimore. A
book, Mistress of Riversdale: The Plantation Letters of Rosalie Stier
Calvert, was the source for the restoration of the house. When
Rosalie’s parents, the Henri Joseph Stier’s of Antwerp, returned to
Europe, Rosalie and her husband, George, moved into Riversdale
and completed its building. There, Rosalie bore nine children, five
who lived to maturity. She died at the age of 42 in 1821.
A program entitled the “Mistress of Riversdale” with Mary Ann
Jung portraying Rosalie was presented at the Questers annual
luncheon. This informative and amusing presentation, with male
audience participation, put a human touch to this lady and the
life she lived.
continued on page 5
• Sunnyside #17
• Unami Creek #100
• Valley Forge #53
• Walking Purchase #330
• Washington’s Crossing #1487
• Weldon House #212
• West Brandywine #1391
• Whimsies #476
• Willow Springs #549
• Wyola Schoolhouse #538
• Ye Olde Almshouse #466
Donations in lieu of baskets:
Conestoga, Bayberry, Queen
Anne’s Lace, Horseshoe Trail,
Spoke and Handle, Tedyuscung
and Canassateago at $50.00
each, Quaker Bonnet at $60.00
and Steeplechase at $100.00.
Total receipts were $3,734.00.

News from The International Convention 2012, Baltimore, Maryland (continued)
Tour Annapolis
Our first stop on our tour of Annapolis was the Maryland
State House which is the oldest capitol in continuous legislative
use dating to 1772. It houses the Maryland General Assembly and
offices of the Governor and Lt. Governor. It has gone through many
revisions and restorations and is currently undergoing extensive
historical restorations to bring some rooms back to the original
18 th century brick and mortar.
Our second stop was the U.S. Naval Academy, established
in 1845. We visited the famous chapel with beautiful Tiffany
stained-glass windows dedicated to some of our famous naval
heroes. The Crypt of John Paul Johns, one of the greatest Revolutionary
War Naval heroes,
is enshrined beneath the
chapel. After lunch at Dalgren
Hall, where some of
the Midshipmen’s social activities
are held, we toured
Bancroft Hall, which is the
largest dormitory in the
U.S. and even has its own
zip code. There, we saw
a sample midshipmen’s
room and Memorial Hall
which is dedicated to the
graduates who have lost
their lives in previous wars.
We heard many interesting
facts and traditions regarding
the Academy. Our last
In Memoriam
George MacKenzie
George Wells
Franklin Rockers #458
Dorothy Frank
Como #81
Susan Beasley
Newtown Commoners #614
Naval Academy Chapel
stop was the town of Annapolis with time for some shopping and
an ice cream. The trip was enjoyed by all.
And there were Workshops, Luncheons, Dinners, and Entertainment…
Highlights:
• President’s Reception Friday night with a delicious salmon dinner
and very entertaining Barbershop Harmony by the Bay Country
Chorus.
60 Years
1. St Georges #13
2. Sunnyside #17
55 Years
3. Conestoga #63
50 Years
4. Lydia Darrah #156
5. Poor Richard #158
46 Years
6. Mayflower #278
40 Years
7. Nelly Bly #533
8. Wyola Schoolhouse #538
9. Willow Springs #549
10. Pennsbury #550
35 Years
11. Steeplechasers #840
12. Mercer Mile #854
30 Years
13. Unami Creek #1010
14. Oak Lore #1023
15. Country Collectors #1024
• Informative Workshops for chapter presidents, treasurers, programs,
P & R, newsletter/Web editors, etc.
• The Saturday night Banquet with Peter Lesher sharing the stories
of the “Chesapeake Bay
Light Houses”.
• The Annual Council
Meeting conducted by
Joan LoCasale, International
President.
• A memorable and marvelous
visit by the “Mistress
of Riversdale” at
our Annual Luncheon,
portrayed by award winning
actress Mary Ann
Jung. Installation of incoming
Officers, presentation
of Grants and the
Founder’s Award.
• A delicious Maryland
crab cake enjoyed right
in our hotel restaurant.
• A Farewell Dinner on Monday with speaker, Scott Sheads, a Fort
McHenry park ranger and War of 1812 historian. His presentation
was dramatic, humorous, informative, exciting, wonderful.
• PA “Open House” party in our hotel room Sunday night. We were
again happy to be your hosts.
Special Recognition
Joan LoCasale, our own PA Quester, has successfully completed
her two years term as International President. We congratulate
Joan on an outstanding job. Thank you for all you do for Questers.
Now, enjoy a well deserved rest.
Maryland Questers welcomed us warmly at every Convention
event and added their own unique and thoughtful touches for our
appreciation. Thank you Maryland Questers for an outstanding
and memorable 2012 convention.
Anniversary Scrolls
Room at Riversdale Mansion
15 Years
16. Fairwold #316
10 Years
17. Pennypack #1386
18. John Craig’s Tavern #1390
19. West Brandywine #1391
20. Hope Lodge #1394
21. Lancaster County #1395
22. Spring House #1399
23. Paoli Local #1401
24 Brittany Belles #1405
5 jYears
25. Franklin Rockers #1458
26. Neshamini Creekers #1460
27. Marquis #1461
28. Iron Forge #1462
29. Gwynedd #1464
Fall 2012
5

ChaPTeR
News
6 Fall 2012
Ye Olde Almshouse #466
Submitted by Mary Elizabeth Cuba
Tour of George Nakashima's Workshop and Compound
Ye Olde Almshouse Questers met at 9:45 a.m. at the Nakashima
Workshop at 1847 Aquetong Road in New Hope. Our morning
began in the “Office Showroom” which was filled with various
Nakashima chairs
plus the “Shoki Collection”
of furniture
based on recently
discovered drawings
from the early
1940’s by the legendary
craftsman
George Nakashima.
It was here
in this wonderful
room where Mira,
George’s daughter,
appeared and
charmed us with
a detailed history
of her father. He
was born in 1905
in Spokane, WA. He was trained as an architect at the University
of Washington and MIT. Through the sponsorship of Antonin
Raymond, he was released from the internment camps in the
Idaho desert after one year and founded his workshop in Bucks
County in 1945. His design philosophy was reverence for the trees
used to craft his furniture. He believed that each tree has its own
character and soul. Since 1990, upon the death of her father, Mira
has extended the tradition of her father by producing the classic
and traditional lines and by preserving the methods and techniques
embraced by her father. She also continues the evolution of new
designs through the Keisho line which means “continuation.”
Mira took us on the first part of the tour of the property to the
many buildings on the property. Because of her bad knees and the
lay of the land, Mira had her daughter-in-law finish showing us
the various showrooms and the amazing pole barn with literally
yards and yards of stacked wooden slabs and lumber. All in all, a
very interesting tour made all the sweeter by the enchanting Mira.
Ye Olde Almshouse chapter members at the Nakashima workshop.
Unami Creek Questers at Shelley Schoolhouse
Conestoga Questers #63
Submitted by Robin Koslo-Stahl
On the Historical Road Again
Imagine living in a 77-room, 5-storied,
French-style chateau designed in the likes
of Versailles. Alfred I. Dupont, who amassed
a fortune in the gunpowder industry, built
for his second wife, Alicea, this very residence,
called Nemours. Tucked away on a
tranquil 3,000-acre estate in the state of
Delaware, Nemours houses many references
to the French nobility: Marie Antoinette’s
gates in the garden, vases from the Schonbrunn
Palace, and paintings of Louis XVI
and Marie Antoinette adorn the walls. Our
Conestoga Questers were on the historical
road once again to seize an opportunity to
do a behind-the-scenes tour of this “palace”
designed by Carrere and Hastings.
A treat awaited us as we walked the
back halls and stairs to view the operations
of a large estate from another time—water
purifying systems, heating systems, state of
the art kitchen and baths, not to mention
the countless art/furniture/artifacts. Following
our view of the interior, our group
boarded a bus to capture the beauty of the
formal gardens complete with reflecting
pool and blooming horse chestnuts (an
endangered species). An added bonus at
the conclusion of the visit was a close-up
look at a small collection of family cars,
complete with two Rolls Royces. After a
wonderful lunch at Harry’s Savoy Grill, we
made our way home to Pennsylvania.
Conestoga Questers at Nemours
Unami Creek#1010
Submitted by Dot Barlow
Unami Creek #1010 chose the Shelly School House, recently
recognized by the National Register of Historic Places, as its recipient
of both State and Chapter grants. The grants are to restore
the windows and shutters on the building. After we presented the
checks to Vic Stevens, he talked to us about the education given to
students in grades one through eight in a one-room school house.
The Shelly School House was in operation from 1885 to 1955. He
spoke about the various items used by the students and teacher
and the necessary houses. Some of us even did a little reminiscing
about our school days. We also saw a demonstration of wool
spinning by one of the Richland Historical Society members, who
concluded our tour by playing a mountain dulcimer.

Neshamini Creek#1460
Submitted by Phyllis Durr
Spotlight on John Fitch
The Neshamini Creek Questers #1460 visited the John Fitch
Museum in Warminster for two purposes. First, Maureen Tobin,
treasurer, presented to Erik Fleischer, a check from Grant money
to be put toward the Mercer Tiles that depicted John Fitch’s Steamboat.
This was the second check presented to Erik for the Moravian
mosaic tiles. These tiles are noticeable as soon as you enter the
building. The original tile design may be found in Harrisburg in
the State Capitol Building. The unique pavement of the Grand Hall
on the first floor of the Capitol is made of hand-crafted Moravian
mosaic tiles designed and created by Henry Chapman Mercer.
Next after the presentation, Erik gave the Questers an informative
tour of the museum. The museum displays appropriate exhibits
depicting John Fitch’s adventuresome life and the steamboats he
invented. Questers watched as Erik operated the six-foot model
with paddles similar to a duck’s feet. An extra bonus was dessert
and drink, which was typical of the period, prepared by Lin in
the Craven Hall Kitchen. A sense of pride and being part of the
preservation of history was felt by the Neshamini Creekers as they
departed for home. As Mercer would have commented, this was
truly “history written on the floor.”
Neshamini Creek Questers at the John Fitch Museum
Spring House Questers #1399 at their 10 th anniversary
celebration with cake and boutonnieres for charter members
Freedom Valley Chapter #395
Submitted by Ethel Johnson
Browns’ Postal Museum
Freedom Valley Chapter
#395 had the unique pleasure
of visiting the Browns’ Postal
Museum. A post office in a
home? You bet when you visit
the Browns in Pottstown, PA.
In order to preserve a
wonderful piece of postal history,
Mr. Robert Brown purchased
the 1870’s circa Lititz,
PA, post office. It was doomed
for the auction block and had
been stored in a barn for
fifty years. This post office
can be seen and touched
along with multiple other
post office memorabila by
visiting the Browns’ home.
ChaPTeR
News
You will not only learn fascinating historical facts about the
postal service and the town of Lititz, but also be treated to coffee,
tea, cookies and candy by this delightful couple, Barbara and
Robert. Don't miss this one.
Quaker City Questers at Langhorne Carpet
Company tour
Questers at Browns’ Postal Museum
Quaker City #1300
Submitted by Sandy Mikelberg
The Quaker City chapter visited the
Langhorne Carpet Company in Pendel,
Pennsylvania. It was a most interesting
hour and a half learning how a carpet is put
together, of what it is made, the number of
carpet companies left in this country and
most of all, to see the twelve-foot, machinedriven
loom work. Our gracious host
explained the different aspects involved in
producing a carpet and who he is competing
against.
There are many different types of
companies in this area and in your area
that could be a good source for a program.
Fall 2012
7

ChaPTeR
News
8 Fall 2012
John Augustus Roebling #1422
Submitted by Karen Trempus
Trip to Soviet Union
At a recent meeting, member Georgia Homer shared her trip
to the Soviet Union during the years 1970-74 when she traveled
to Moscow, Leningrad , Kiev and Sochi. It was the 100th birthday
of Lenin who ruled Russia during the Communists’ takeover in
1920. He was buried in the famous Red Square, Moscow’s oldest
Square known for the Kremlin, St. Basil’s Cathedral and Lenin’s
Mausoleum.
Georgia described her collection of pins, including an orange
and gold round pin of Lenin’s representing the Red Square Revolution,
a blue and gold pin from Aeroflot, the national airline of
Russia and two bronze medals celebrating the100th anniversary
of Lenin’s birth.
We also discussed the ruble and the kopeck, Russian money.
Nesting dolls were passed around. Georgia also displayed carved
inlaid wood boxes and a colorful wooden goblet set and decanter.
We saw a box of original cigarettes with a holder, enameled address
books, a jade necklace, an amethyst ring and a beautiful
silver fox collar. Everyone loved the music box with the tiny ballerina
spinning around. We all wished we had been with her on
this memorable trip of a lifetime. Georgia Homer with some of her Soviet Union
memorabilia
Weldon House #212
Submitted by Kay Ewer
Weldon House Questers visited the Fairmount Park Historic
Preservation Trust headquarters located in Thomas Mansion, at
6245 Wissahickon Avenue, Philadelphia, PA. A tour was conducted
by Quester Lucy Strackhouse, Executive Director of the Historic
Trust. Our 2012 Grant project, the “Little Guard House,” was on
the premises for restoration. It had been located on the corner
of Lincoln Drive and Wissahickon Avenue, just a few blocks from
the Thomas Mansion. When restoration is complete, the Guard
House will be returned to Saylor Grove–a park in the same location.
In the late 1800’s, there were over 100 “guard-boxes” as they
were originally called. Currently, only ten remain. These small
Victorian structures are monuments not just to the architectural
style of Philadelphia’s past, but to the 98 years (1868 – 1972) of
dedicated and excellent service that the Fairmount Guards gave
to the city of Philadelphia. The Fairmount Guard staff was larger
than the Philadelphia Police Department during this era.
Weldon House Questers visiting their 2012 Grant project, the “Little
Guard House”
Lingohocken #495
Submitted by Sonja Marino
Members Fran Finlan, on left, and Ann
Rainey, historian, on right, pose with Phyllis
Morris, center, from the Village Improvement
Association after presenting a check
for the restoration of one of the sponsored
historic dining-room chairs from the James-
Lorah House in Doylestown, PA. Built in
1844, the house exhibits three main architectural
styles including the Federal style ,
the Greek Revival style, and the Italianate
style. The building is open to the public for
tours and is home to the VIA.

Wyola Schoolhouse #538
Submitted by Jeanette Burke
Wyola Schoolhouse Questers #538
celebrated their 40 th anniversary as a
Questers chapter at a “High Tea,” which
was held on May 15, at the home of President
Grace Renner, a long-time member.
The following members who enjoyed the
celebration are: Sally Abel, Lois Ashman,
Jeanette Burke, Diana Doty, Mary Flora,
Jean Gould, Ann Larson, Jane Peet, Judy
Pittock, Grace Renner, Barbara Wadhams
and Fay Weeks.
Our chapter began in January 1972,
and has been active for these 40 years with
many fascinating programs and lovely trips
to historic places. Many of our members are
very talented and have given wonderful
programs on antiques and collectables.
Militia Hill #5
Submitted by Maryann Fichter
The Militia Hill Questers has had a varied
and interesting year of programs. This photo
was taken at our annual covered dish meeting
at the home of member Ana Maria Hartman
in North Wales. Pictured are Shirley Truver;
our president, Joan Lenhardt; from the Program
Committee, Bruce Stocking, speaker;
and hostess Ana Maria Hartman. Bruce Stocking
is historian for the Winfield Scott Hancock
Society and an authority on the Civil War. His
program included clothing worn at the time of
the war, as well as weapons and other items
used by the soldiers at that time. The stories
of these things were fascinating, and we were
fortunate to have him stay for lunch with us.
Fairwold ##1316
Penn’s Manor #84
Submitted by Helen Tynan
Fairwold and Penns Manor Questers
held a meeting at the Horticultural Center
at Morris Arboretum to present their PA
Questers Grants checks to the Springfield
Mill. Walking to the mill, we were given a
tour of the miller’s house which dates to
the 1700’s. Thanks to PA Questers, windows
and door were restored. On the second
story, we saw the original mill stones from
France, which need to be cleaned and
redressed to restore them to working use.
The attrition mill has been restored and our
guide put corn in it and made corn meal.
We also toured the Iris Garden where
there are over 100 iris from all over the
world, some over 100 years old. We returned
to the Horticultural Center and heard a talk
on the continuing restoration of the mill.
The goal is to get the mill fully operating as
a 19th century mill for tours. It was a very
enjoyable meeting and we are pleased that
two Quester chapters are working together
to restore this remarkable building.
Wyola Schoolhouse Questers celebrating at their 40 th anniversary
celebration
Militia Hill Questers at their Civil War program
Fairwold and Penns Manor Chapters presenting their grant checks for
the Springfield Mill with the Mill in the background
ChaPTeR
News
Fall 2012
9

ChaPTeR
News Irene Reiter is a dynamic lady who is
known as a well-researched speaker,
sometimes as a first-person
portrayer of historic characters. She
recently educated, and entertained,
our chapter with her impersonation
of Elizabeth Chapman Lawrence, a
wealthy and colorful Victorian lady,
who was born in Doylestown, just
eleven miles from here, in 1829.
Elizabeth was the aunt of the august
Dr. Henry Mercer, and helped
to fund his projects, including the
Mercer and Font Hill Museums and
the Moravian Tile Works, which are
still very much in use.
Mrs. Lawrence met a wide
range of very interesting people, in-
Irene Reiter por tray ing
Elizabeth Chapman Lawrence
10 Fall 2012
Ann’s Choice #1479
Submitted by Connie Fewlass
cluding Elizabeth Barrett Browning,
James Buchanan, James Michener
and even the Queen of England!
Preparations for being presented to Queen Victoria included acquiring
the proper dress, of course, which had to be elaborate as well
as expensive. Price was no problem for her, but it was noted that
the “meanest” appropriate dress would cost a hundred and twenty
dollars… in the 1800’s! She did lead a very privileged life.
Rittenhouse #252
Submitted by Joanne Jackson, Secretary
In January, a program on the history of aprons was hosted and
presented by member Mary Jane Rees at her home. We were all
told to bring or wear an apron. There was an ankle-length calico
apron of the type worn by farm women that went from the kitchen
to the garden and everywhere else while doing daily housekeepiing
duties. We saw some cover-up aprons worn over “house
dresses” which were part of the homemakers attire until the ’40s
and ’50s. There were waist aprons both utilitarian and dressy; ones
obviously saved for “company.’ These were beautifully embroidered,
appliquéd, smocked and specially made for holidays. There
were even some present-day barbeque aprons. Aprons are not
used so much now by homemakers; worn mostly when doing an
especially messy
job. We had a
good time trying
on the aprons
and admiring the
handwork and
d r e s s m a k i n g
that made these
aprons a part
of a housewife’s
life.
Rittenhouse Questers modeling aprons
Quester 2012 PA Grants
Chapter Amount Historic Site Project
Brown's Folly $ 335.00 Pennsbury Manor Acquire 1 barrel,2 bellermine jugs,1 redware
Conestoga $ 1,000.00 Historic Waynesborough Grooming items for Anthony Wayne and wife
Dames of Rocksville $ 275.00 Bucks County Historical Society Restoration of gauntlets and money belt
Damian House $ 400.00 Upper Moreland Historical Assn. Preserving 1800-1900 local newspapers
Fairwold $ 1,000.00 Morris Aboretum/Springfield Mill Restore turbine and foot bridge by turbine
Fonthill $ 750.00 Bucks County Historical Society Restore Frock Coat of Cpt. Mahlon Yardley
Freedom Valley $ 432.00 Historic Yellow Springs Restore Civil War Coat
Gaudy Dutch $ 250.00 Historical Society of Whitpain Acquisition of school desk for Franklinville Sch.
Glen-Wynne $ 264.00 Pennypacker Mills Acquisition of coal sieves -Hands on History
Hope Lodge $ 300.00 Peter Wentz Farmstead 3 real Elizabeth Drinkers diaries & UV filters for
3 parlor windows to protect textiles
Horseshoe Trail $ 100.00 Diamond Rock School House Preservation Assn. Restore Agreement to start school
John Craig's Tavern $ 212.00 Graeme Park Historic Site Acquisition of period items for dining room
Keystone Gleaners $ 500.00 Wayne County Historical Society Restore 1876 document at Dorflinger Glass
Kit-Han-Ne $ 375.00 Mildred Lankerd-Thomas
Genealogical Society Restore copies Leader times newspaper
Lingohocken $ 184.00 James Lorah House Restore Chippendale side chair
Lydia Darragh $ 100.00 Craven Hall Historical Society, Inc. Acquire reproduction kitchen items
Marquis $ 1,000.00 Johnsville Centrifuge & Science Museum Acquire scale model of Mercury-Mercury mission
Mercer Mile $ 1,000.00 Heritage Conservancy Restore exterior Mercer tiles-Aldie Mansion
Moland House $ 750.00 Moland House Restore desk as was used in 18 th century
Museum Pieces $ 175.00 Bucks County Civil War Museum Restore historical lithograph
Neshamini Creekers $ 500.00 John Fitch Steamboat Museum, Inc. Acquire Steamboat mosaic tile floor
Paoli Local $ 1,000.00 Friends of Hibernia Restore settee in Hibernia Mansion
Peaceable Kingdom $ 1,000.00 Newtown Presbyterian Church Acquire 2 Iron benches for gardens
Penn's Manor $ 200.00 Morris Arboretum Restore function of mill
Pennypack $ 500.00 Friends of Boileau Farmstead Restoration of Farmhouse cellar door
Queen Ann’s Lace $ 187.50 Clifton House-Ft. Washington Historical Society Restore wing chair in main meeting room
Rittenhouse $ 70.00 Historical Society of Whitpain Acquire girls & boys period handmade clothing
Salt Cellar $ 200.00 Moland House Place settings for display in kitchen
Spoke and Handle $ 1,000.00 Friends of Bolton Mansion Restoration of dining room floor and trims
Spring House $ 175.00 Wissahickon Valley Historical Society Acquisition of window shades to protect artifacts
Steeplechasers $ 1,000.00 Little Abington Meetinghouse (circa 1836) Restore chimney & acquire household items
Tedyuscung $ 250.00 The Springfield Historical Society Archival shelving for display & Storage
Unami Creek $ 500.00 Richland Historical Society Restore windows & shutters at Shelley school
Weldon House $ 300.00 Fairmount Park Restore historic park Guard House
Ye Olde Almshouse $ 1,000.00 The Historical Society of Hilltown Twp. Hartzel-Strassburger Homestead-restoration
TOTAL $ 17,284.50