Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary’s Antiques In The Park draws crowd

by Rachel Hunter

On Saturday, August 23, the Gouverneur Village Park came alive with charm and nostalgia as the 2025 Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary’s Antiques In The Park unfolded beneath a canopy of late-summer skies. The event was more than a date on the calendar—it was a heartfelt gathering where history met hometown pride, and every vintage treasure told a story. With neighbors mingling, laughter echoing between vendor tents, and the spirit of community shining through, it was a day that reminded everyone why traditions like these matter.

Longtime readers of the Gouverneur Tribune Press may feel a familiar tug of memory at the mention of Antiques In The Park—a beloved tradition first brought to life by the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary in the summer of 1994. More than thirty years since its debut, the event continues to beckon the North Country community, weaving generations together in a shared celebration of history, charm, and connection. It is estimated that a total of $2,500 was raised through this fundraiser event.

Beneath the sheltering canopy of timeworn trees, visitors meandered through the park, the soft rustle of leaves underscoring their journey past ten vendor booths brimming with vintage charm. Each item—weathered, storied, and full of character—invited quiet wonder. The thrill of discovery lingered in the air, as nostalgia took physical form.

The atmosphere buzzed with warmth and excitement, with neighbors reconnecting, collectors swapping tales, children marveling at the history and heritage on display. With strong community support, the raffle drawing for $100 in cash and $100 in scratch-off tickets in an antique frame was a hit—and words of congratulations were extended to winner Ed Boyd. The bake sale and local food vendors had added a sweet touch, and the silent auction brought a bit of friendly suspense. The Gouverneur Museum offered a rich display of local history. Amid it all, the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary’s presence reminded everyone that the day wasn’t just about antiques—it was about supporting a legacy of care and connection.

Did you know? The hospital auxiliary has been active in the local community for nine decades. The Stephen B. VanDuzee Auxiliary was founded in 1929. This group operated continuously until 1947. At that time plans were underway for the new hospital and the administration felt that it would be detrimental to the fund drive for the Auxiliary to also be trying to raise money. After much deliberation, it was decided to discontinue the auxiliary.

In 1950 the hospital trustees asked that the final officers of the VanDuzee group meet and commence reorganization as Edward John Noble Hospital Auxiliary. Concern was expressed by the auxiliary members involved that greater need would occur due to the larger size of the hospital. It was noted that the largest amount of money raised in any one year from 1929 – 1947 had been $2300.

On June 20, 1950, a meeting was held, and committees were appointed to get the new auxiliary operational. On July 13, 1950, the day prior to the dedication of the new hospital, a new constitution (our current by-laws) was adopted, and new officers were installed. They were as follows: President Mrs. Joseph F. McAllister: Vice-President Mrs. Norman Donald: Secretary Mrs. Mason Smith; and Treasurer Miss Pearl Orvis. It is interesting to note that the sum of $65.79 was carried over from the books of the VanDuzee Auxiliary.

The new Auxilians worked very hard preparing for the dedication ceremony and sold refreshments and commemorative copies of the Tribune Press on that day. On the day of the ceremony, 331 people joined the group – 300 women, 27 men and 4 life members.

The hospital opened on August 8, 1950, the birthday of Edward John Noble, the principal benefactor of the new facility.

In October of 1950 a major membership drive was held, recruiting an additional 580 members bringing the total to 911. In addition to regular membership, the group also formed a Junior Auxiliary with its own officers and directors. Group memberships were accepted of any clubs wishing to support the hospital.

Beginning on January 1, 2014, EJ Noble Hospital dissolved, and the facility became known as Gouverneur Hospital. Thus, EJ Noble Hospital Auxiliary became known as Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary.

The Auxiliary has undertaken many fundraising events and projects over the years for the hospital and former nursing home. These included: cash donations, equipment purchases, building renovations, sponsorship of a candy striper program, and in the early years, establishment of a patient aid fund to help needy families handle medical bills. Purchases ranged from bibs for the nursery, stickers for child patients in the emergency room, to big ticket items such as a van for the nursing home and the laparoscopic cholecystectomy equipment for the operating room. In addition to direct help to the medical facility, the group also gave scholarships to students in medical related fields.

The year 2025 marks the 75th Anniversary (1950 – 2025) of Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary. The public has been cordially invited to the diamond jubilee celebration on Saturday, September 13, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Eldon B. Conklin Gouverneur Community Center, 4673 NY-58, Gouverneur. The Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary will offer highlights of accomplishments, light refreshments, and family-friendly activities. More information is available online at ghauxiliary.org.

Much gratitude was extended to all those who continue to give generously in support of the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary. For more information about the Gouverneur Hospital Auxiliary and/or the GHA Life Saver Gift Shop, contact Kim Halpin at 315-287-1197 or 315-261-5753.