Some of the antiques that will be on offer at the GFWC Intermediate League Antiques Show & Sale are shown at Linden Tree. The show begins Friday night from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the Tanglewood Center, and continues Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Shane Potter/Butler Eagle

This weekend will bring the 71st GFWC Intermediate League Antiques Show & Sale. It will be the second show since a two-year interruption caused by COVID pandemic restrictions.

The show deserves the support of the public — even those who can’t tell the difference between an armoire and a bachelor’s chest and could go happily through life without owning a bergère or a piece of Biedermeier furniture.

That’s because proceeds from the sale will go to 14 local nonprofit organizations.

Last year the Intermediate League donated $12,680 to the Children’s Advocacy Center of Butler County, Butler Art Center, Butler County Symphony, Butler Area Public Library, Jean B. Purvis Community Health Center, Fishbone Ministries, Grapevine Center, Kids Weekend Backpack Program, Maridon Museum, Meals on Wheels, Tanglewood Center, Musical Theatre Guild, Friends of Preston Park Foundation and the YMCA.

The antiques show is the Intermediate League’s only fundraiser, and the funds raised are going to some truly worthy causes. The organizations chosen provide food, mental health services and protection for children. They also enrich the local arts scene.

In addition, the show gathers together some 40 dealers, giving attendees a chance to examine a large collection of furniture, prints, glassware, paintings, china, books and curiosities without having to travel across Western Pennsylvania.

In these days when furniture is made out of pressed fiberboard and put together with an Allen wrench, it also gives people a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship of a bygone era.

The Intermediate League said last year’s attendance was good. Here’s hoping this year’s is even better.

— EKF