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NH Questers-New Members Welcomed

The J. Schoolcraft Sherman Chapter #1519 meets monthly at the NH Library except
July and August. Our meetings are at 4:30 p.m. on the 1st Monday of the month.
We are a chapter of the International Questers, an organization of individuals
interested in history, preservation and an appreciation for antiques. We try to have
an interesting program each month and members bring items for a Show & Tell.
Dues are $50 per year and includes an online subscription to the quarterly Questers
magazine. For more information contact me by email at vjfariello@gmail.com or
call 315-723-7285. We would be happy to have you come check us out!

Victor J. Fariello Jr. is a lifelong resident of New Hartford and has been a collector and dealer
of antiques for many years. He is a past officer and member of the New Hartford Historical
Society and is the President of the J. Schoolcraft Sherman Chapter #1519 of The Questers,
by Victor J. Fariello Jr. an International organization for people who love antiques and have a commitment to
preservation. Questions on anything related to antiques can be sent to him at PO Box 194,
Washington Mills, NY 13479 or by email to vjfariello@gmail.com. Any photos submitted will
be returned upon request.

A covered butter dish from the Depression era.

Washboards were once a staple in every
American household Anthony Nicotera and Maria Smith are retired school administrators. They also co-chair the
Genesis Group Regional Education Committee.

Genesis Group to Celebrate Education

American Education Week is celebrated during the third full week of November
each year. In 2025, it will take place from November 18th to November 22nd,
providing a dedicated time for schools, families, and communities to come together
and support education.
An intricate brass padlock from the Victorian The National Education Association was one of the creators and original sponsors
period. of American Education Week. Distressed that 25 percent of the country's World

FROM THE MAILBAG War I draftees were illiterate and 9 percent were physically unfit, representatives
of the NEA and the American Legion met in 1919 to seek ways to generate public
support for education. The conventions of both organizations subsequently adopted
Q. I have a covered butter dish that I remember gracing my grandmother’s dinner resolutions of support for a national effort to raise public awareness of the importance
table on holidays and special occasions. It was passed down to my mother who of education. In 1921, the NEA Representative Assembly in Des Moines, Iowa, called
in turn gave it to me a few years ago. Can you tell me anything about it and its for designation of one week each year to spotlight education. In its resolution, the
approximate value? I would never part with it but it would be nice to know. NEA called for: “An educational week ... observed in all communities annually for
A. Your Depression glass butter dish is very recognizable as being in the Cherry the purpose of informing the public of the accomplishments and needs of the public
Blossom pattern that was produced by the Jeannette Glass Company of Jeannette, schools and to secure the cooperation and support of the public in meeting those
Ohio. It is considered the most collected pattern in Depression glass. For that reason needs.” The first observance of American Education Week occurred December 4-10,
it has been widely reproduced. You are fortunate that you have the provenance 1921, with the NEA and American Legion as the cosponsors.
of knowing it has been in your family for many years, thus authenticating it as a Locally, The Genesis Group has sponsored a celebration of education for the past
genuine piece of Jeannette Glass. I would value it at $75 in today’s market. 19 years. We believe recognition isn't just about feeling good. A recent Gallup poll
Q. I have a wood and metal washboard that I purchased at an auction several years showed that consistent recognition for doing good work has a direct influence on
ago. I am curious if it has any value? the key performance measures that are used to evaluate our schools. We believe
A. Your antique washboard is an artifact of a time gone by. It is hard to think teachers who receive regular recognition and praise are more productive and
that these were a very effective way to wash clothes, but as they say, necessity is the engaged at work, are more likely to stay with their school and are more likely to
mother of invention. So many were produced and many are still around today. I receive higher satisfaction from students and parents. Strictly from a performance
would value it at $25. perspective, it's clear that when we fail to recognize our best teachers, we are leaving
our schools' potential on the table.
Q. This antique brass lock belonged to my mother’s great uncle. He prized it
and gave it me when I was in my 20’s, which was a long time ago. It is a cherished Later this month, we’ll announce the names of educators and programs selected
keepsake but would like to know what it is worth? to be honored at this year’s event. We can announce (now), the names of those who
A. Your very nice brass padlock dates back to the Victorian era. These locks are will receive our lifetime achievement awards. They are:
highly collectible and the fact that you have the keys and its pristine condition EDUCATION HALL OF DISTINCTION
enhance its value. I would estimate its value at $100, however it could command an · Lisa Putnam
even higher price from a collector. · Brian Bellair
Happy Collecting! · James Weaver
EDUCATION DISTINGUISHED SERVICE AWARD
NH Historical Society – Your Support Is Needed · Jim DuRoss

It’s a great time to renew or start your membership in this great community · Nicholas Laino
asset. There are new rates for 2025: $20 Individual; $25-Family; $50-Contribute; · Richard Engelbrecht
and $100-Corporate. You can also now pay for your membership online at the This year’s Celebration of Education is planned for November 20 ~ 5:30pm at
society’s website newhartfordhistory.com or you can mail your check payable to Hart’s Hill Inn, Whitesboro.
‘NH Historical Society’ to PO Box 238, New Hartford, NY 13413. All donations are To make a reservation, visit: www.TheGenesisGroup.org
tax deductible. Your support is appreciated.