Tredyffrin Easttown Historical Society
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Source: January 1940 Volume 3 Number 1, Page 25


One Sunday afternoon

William T. Mansley

Page 25

It was a pleasant Sunday in December. The sun shone brightly. The temperature moderately cold. The kind to encourage folks to walk.

A number of members of the Historical Club of Tredyffrin- Easttown Township felt so inclined, and so about two-thirty they set out from Mrs. Bradley's home. Their objective was the Waynesboro House, the home of famous General Anthony Wayne who helped much in winning the war for Independence.

At three-thirty, the appointed time, those members who walked and those who rode met at the garden gate. A single knock on the old-fashioned knocker brought the host of the occasion to the door. His greeting was most cordial. After removing our coats the pilgrimage through the house began. On our way to the dining room we noticed the shuttered panels on each side of the hall. These could be drawn together thus dividing the long, wide hall. A picture presented itself as we reached the open door of the dining room. The table was set in a formal but beautiful way for expected guests. The only thing of note in that room was the collection of silver spoons once used by the General. They were examined carefully. Comment was made about their size and yet so light of weight.

The next room of special interest seen, was across the hall. This was a part of the original building. The large fireplace attracted considerable attention. We retraced our steps and entered the room that contained a number of interesting pieces of furniture that were once used by General Wayne. One being a sofa that had been brought up from his home in the South.

The picture of General Wayne was above the original mantlepiece, on each side of which were the pistols and sword used by him. In a corner of the room was a closet containing some beautiful blue china, and two lovely fans that were enclosed in glass. Altogether, the room was both charming and interesting.

Although the members were shown other rooms in the house, they contained little or nothing of historical interest. One exception, however, the room once used by General Lafayette during his stay there, contained the large poster bed, chest and other pieces that were interesting to see.

After expressing our appreciation to the host, William Wayne, of his kindness, we bade him good-bye. The general opinion of the members was that the visit to Waynesboro was pleasurable as well as profitable.

Then came, after a walk toward home, a most delightful repast given by the hospitable Mr. and Mrs. Heagy. A fitting ending to an afternoon well spent.

--By William T. Mansley--

 
 

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