OK, maybe adding “addict” to the title was a bit of a stretch, but some may consider me that. My addiction isn’t drugs, alcohol, or nicotine, and it’s not something that you hide away from friends or family.
My addiction – York County, Pennsylvania memorabilia.
If you’re aware of my interest in family history, you would make the assumption that I would search for items related to my research. While this is true, my addiction doesn’t stop there. I tend to purchase pretty much anything that relates to York County, as long as I feel I’m getting a good deal. I’ve passed up on some things in the past that didn’t seem worthy of the cost, at least to my budget. It’s not that I’m actually searching for items all the time. Sometimes, items just seem to find me in places I’d never expect.
I’ve found all sorts of things for my collection – commemorative plates, mugs, advertising fans, church history books, old newspapers, and so much more. The items I come across vary in price, and it really depends on where I find them. Generally, you can pay a few cents for some items, but for others, you may pay hundreds.
My latest “acquisition” – a small jug commemorating the York County Colonial Court House. It even states that we were the first capital of the U.S.A. from 1777-1778.
York County Colonial Courthouse Commemorative Jug
Of course, there are some items I find that are connected to my family research, such as marriage certificates, wills, and deeds. I even found some advertising items from the O.M. Stouch Store that once stood in Dover, and others from to the Shindler Funderal Home from North York.
Another special item I have is a 10th Anniversary book of the Valencia Ballroom, 1929-1939, which is located in York, Pennsylvania. This was given to me several years ago by a very nice coworker. It was an item that was in her family for many years, but she no longer had any interest in it. I was entrusted with it, as she knew of my love for local history.
Valencia Ballroom Anniversary Book 1929-1939
I’m still searching for some items that have eluded me over the years. A few of these treasures are a book on the history of North Codorus Township, a postcard of Strayer’s Church in Dover Township, and an early 1900s election “advertising” card for George B.M. Baker, who was running for York County Commissioner, and my wife’s ancestor.
If you’re wondering where I find my York County “treasures”, I’m sorry to say that I can’t reveal my sources. I just can’t risk losing something I’ve been searching for. I can say that there is no limit to where you can find a great item.
What is your addiction?
