Friday, September 18, 2015

The Worcester House history?


From a Pocomoke Public Eye reader:

"Not a comment or an opinion but a question that some long time resident of Pocomoke may know. Just over the MD line in VA not far down from the Royal Farms (same side of the highway) is an antique store. I think it is called  the Worcester House. It is a long, low building. On one end is a large walk in fireplace. Does anyone know when this building was built and what was its original purpose?"

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Thelma & Butch Arion, owners of The Worcester House Antiques; acquired the property in the early 1960's. Soon after, they built the center section of the "long, Bucks County Gold" building and that became their original shop in New Church, Virginia. In 1972, they expanded with the current section along with a large walk-in fireplace... a replica in the Williamsburg style. The 12" to 18" boards that surround the fireplace were from an old barn. That's right, it has been an antique shop for almost 53 years.

Why the name the Worcester House Antiques? Originally, their shop and house was situated in Worcester County between Pocomoke & Snow Hill. The State of Maryland acquired their shop, house & land to make way for Route 113 North road. So, the name just stuck and there was really no reason rename the business.

The Arions divorced and Thelma Olsen Arion has been the sole proprietor of the shop and acreage. The antique market has changed over the years but she still carries many examples of 18th & 19th century furniture and accessories. Of course these days, things from the 1920's and 1930's were not considered antiques when the shop first opened... but now they are indeed such. You'll find those items as well.

Thelma greets every customer, visitor, and friend with a smile. When talking with them she seems to have a story that is geared to their conversation. She is respected by many and is certainly a workaholic.

Since she grew up on a farm she has always had the passion with handling "fruits & vegetables". Hence... she, her daughter, and her high school sweet heart have operated the adjoining produce stand for the last 19 years. If you want "Farm Fresh" produce and vegetables then you need to visit them.

So, stop by her shop for some antiques and/or "Farm Fresh" produce... you will not be disappointed.