With antiques lining the green and participants in red, white and blue Wareham’s Historical Society had people not only celebrating America’s history, but Wareham’s too. 

On Friday, July 4, the Wareham Historical Society hosted its annual Antique Fair in Canter Park. Participants shopped around and took tours of Fearing Tavern, a Wareham landmark.

Fearing Tavern, owned by the historical society, had guests tour the history of the town with opportunities for appraisals and donations to the organization. 

“It was part of one of the original buildings in Wareham. It was used as a post office, a storage coach stop between New Bedford and the Cape and it was where selectmen used to meet— it’s a major part of our history,” explained Sandy Slavin, Treasurer of the Wareham Historical Society. 

Some enjoyed the connection with the community that the fair offered. Carol Lucas, a seller, has been in the business for about 50 years and said she likes how it brings people together.

“I see old friends and old customers here, and it’s nice. It’s a way to keep in touch,” she said. 

Lucas explained how she also likes how convenient the fair is. 

“It’s a very pleasant place to be. We can get here early, we can set up early and the show ends at a decent time in the afternoon,” she said. 

Many people were seen with pets while they perused the items set out on the tables. One of these participants was Denise Demers from Carver and her dog Angus. 

Demers explained how she came to the fair in support of Wareham's Historical Society. 

“I just moved over to the area. I’m from Plymouth, and I moved to Carver. I wanted to support the Historical Society. I believe in that,” she said.

Demers said that she believes organizations, such as the Historical Society are important.

“I worry that it’s not going to get passed down to younger generations. [The Historical Society] maintains these buildings and they keep the history alive," she said.