Bethel United Methodist hosts Lewes Antiques Show & Sale

This year’s Lewes Antiques Show & Sale at Bethel United Methodist Church carried significantly more meaning to the organizers than in years past. Although the 62nd year doesn’t sound noteworthy, it wasn’t the year that made it special. This year’s event will be remembered due to the groundwork and plans made by Linda R. Griffin, who passed away April 1.

Co-chair Ruth Ann Baker said the news of her friend’s passing was sudden, and Griffin had been hard at work organizing and making plans for the July 8-9 event. Baker credited Griffin with being a major reason for the show’s growth and success in recent years, including navigating the tough times of the COVID-19 pandemic. Organizers said Griffin worked meticulously on every detail of the show before her passing to make sure the church and volunteers could be as successful as possible.

The event ran for two days, beginning at 10 a.m. each day. It featured 17 vendors, a café and a silent auction. Vendors were able to keep the money they made from selling their antiques, and the church raised money by selling vendor spaces. The Curiosity Shop, located across the street, was open for business as well, raising funds for the Bethel Women’s Ministry’s mission of supporting women and children in need.

Volunteers played a major role in putting on the event, helping to run the kitchen, serve food, provide security and give information to attendees in need.