Tom O'Hagan started collecting stamps as a youngster. "I did what most young collectors did, the commemoratives and the other standard United States issues" he explained. " I really hated the first day covers until one day I began reading the history included with a collection of covers at a local stamp shop. I was hooked."

Lewes, Del. -- The Lewes Historical Society program will present its third edition of "The Collectors Corner" at its March 16 program scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Lewes Presbyterian Church hall on Kings Highway in Lewes.

This year's Collectors Corner features three collections of three Historical Society members that have legacies going back many years. Well-known Lewes historian, Hazel Brittingham will display and discuss some of the many Lewes photographs and artifacts she has collected over the years which she calls "A Touch of Lewes." In an "updated" reprise from last year, Herb Archdeacon will show another facet of his extensive collection of vintage Railroad memorabilia. Tom O'Hagan will present a fascinating array of lighthouses as depicted in limited edition first day cachet covers from the United States Post Office.

Most Lewes residents will agree that Lewes native Hazel Brittingham has collected more lore and things about Lewes than anyone. Although she usually focuses on history such as books and historical ephemera, she said that her interest in Lewes history has led to acquiring many interesting items. "I will show some photos of old Lewes," she said "but I think people will really enjoy seeing some of the other items such as the 1930s linen wall hanging that is really a historical account of Lewes and the 16-pound cannonball from the famous War of 1812."

Railroad buff Herb Archdeacon began his romance of the rails when he was a young boy. Last year he showed some of his extensive collection of calendar art depicting classic Pennsylvania Railroad scenes. "This time I'm going to bring some interesting "hands on' items from railroading that I've collected from many sources," he said. Archdeacon will discuss an unusual array of buttons and pins that identify rail lines of yore and other related relics.

Tom O'Hagan started collecting stamps as a youngster. "I did what most young collectors did, the commemoratives and the other standard United States issues" he explained. " I really hated the first day covers until one day I began reading the history included with a collection of covers at a local stamp shop. I was hooked." O'Hagan began collecting these special issues which led to researching first day cover cachets-illustrated envelopes imprinted with art that relates to the stamp issue. For the past 16 years he has collected a wide range of lighthouse cachets which he will discuss. He even created a couple of commemorative cachets for the 375th anniversary of Lewes.

According to program chairman Mike Tyler, Collectors Corner began because a number of Historical Society members showed a willingness to present their collections as they related to history. Each featured collector will be available to answer questions during and after the presentations.

The program is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be served following the presentations.

©2002-2005 The Lewes Historical Society