On behalf of the Pilgrimage Garden Club I would like to thank The Natchez Democrat for the recent feature article and editorial regarding the 31st Natchez Antiques Forum. The Pilgrimage Garden Club volunteers continue to prepare for the 31st Antiques Forum, “the Arts in the American Experience: 1750-1860” Sept. 11-13.

In addition to scholarly presentations, participants will have the opportunity to visit a number of Natchez’s most significant historic houses and attend elegant social events. Wendell Garrett, referred to as the “Dean of American Antiques” and senior vice president for Americana at Sotheby’s in New York, has again contributed his expertise in developing this year’s forum.

Six prominent authorities in the field of American decorative arts, along with Mr. Garrett, will help forum participants acquire an understanding of how the colonies and the new nation of America embraced British and European style and design, while inevitably bringing American, and even regional, character to furniture, silver, portraiture, architecture and the decorative arts. Registration begins Thursday, Sept. 11 at the Country Inn and Suites, overlooking the Mississippi River. Lectures will also be presented at this location. Registration will be followed by a welcome cocktail reception at Stanton Hall, the most palatial of all the Natchez mansions.

Participants will enjoy coffee at historic Bontura and lunch at the Carriage House at Stanton Hall. Downtown antiques shops will host a special evening event just for forum participants. A progressive lunch and champagne farewell in four privately owned historic homes: Wigwam, Airlie, Riverview and The Towers, concludes the forum.

Of special note is the fact that over the years the forum has attracted antique buyers and collectors to Natchez from all over the world, which has had positive economic impact on our community. The event would not be possible without the hard work of dozens of volunteers. This year’s co-chairmen, Elaine Gemmell, Gwen Ball and Tanya Biglane have worked tirelessly to present one of the best forums ever. And with the enthusiasm and tenacity of the Antiques Forum first chairman, Jeannette Feltus, a new generation has the chance to attend and enjoy the Natchez Antiques Forum!

Ticket prices vary depending on the events attended. Special ticket discounts are available for Pilgrimage Garden Club, Natchez Garden Club and Auburn Garden Club local members. The American Society of Interior Designers has approved the Natchez Antiques Forum for continuing education credit. For more information or to make reservations, call 1-877-31FORUM or e-mail antiquesforum@bellsouth.net.

Eugenie Cates is the 2008 Antiques Forum publicity co-chairman.