The 59th Theta Charity Antiques Show

For Houstonians and Texans alike – our most prestigious and sophisticated antique show is returning this week.   Held at the George R. Brown Convention Center, Hall E – the 59th Annual Theta Charity Antiques Show starts on November 17 and lasts until the 20th. Doors open at 11:00 am and close at 7:00 pm. On Sunday, doors will close at 5:00 pm. The Theta Show is the one antiques show that is not to be missed if you are a lover of fine art and antiques.

The Theta Show is known for its exquisite antiques – the best of the best!

The show kicks off with The Gala Preview Party which will be held this Wednesday, November 16th. Many interesting speakers and seminars are planned throughout the event.   The theme of this year’s show is “Our Tribute To Texas” – with an emphasis on antiques and art from the Governor’s Mansion in Austin. Jane Karotkin, Texas Governor’s Mansion Curator/Administrator of Friends of the Governor’s Mansion, is the featured guest on Thursday, November 17th. Several selected antique treasures from the Mansion collection will be on display at the show – giving guests a rare opportunity to view these museum quality pieces.

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The Texas Governor’s Mansion has been the official residence of our governors since 1856, making it the fourth oldest governor’s residence continuously occupied in the U.S. The Greek Revival mansion was built with Austin bricks and pine log pillars from nearby Bastrop County. It is located in Austin, on a corner overlooking the Texas State Capitol.

One late night in June, 2008, the Mansion was severely damaged by an arsonist. As luck would have it, all the Mansion’s furniture and art was in storage, but the Mansion suffered significant structural damage during the fire.   Three years later, the restoration on the Mansion is still ongoing, but it is projected to be completed by 2012. To read more about the Mansion and see photographs of its interiors, including the famous staircase and yellow double parlor, please go HERE.

Continuing with the Texas theme, on Friday, November 18, a special show on “Texas First Families: Reunion and Reminiscence,” will be held, along with a seated luncheon, moderated by Shara Fryer.   Guests will include former Governors and their families, including former Governor and First Lady Mark and Linda Gale White, Jo Ann Jester Berry (daughter of former Governor Beauford Jester), and Cathy Clements Matthews (granddaughter of former Governor Bill Clements.)

And most exciting is guest Martha Stewart who will be speaking and signing her newest book – “Martha’s Entertaining.” Take note though - only books pre-purchased at Blue Willow Bookshop will be signed (although there will be a few available for purchase at the show.) The event will start at 10:30 on Saturday, November 19. Check the web site for explicit instructions on where and how to purchase your book if you would like it signed by Ms. Stewart.
Along with more speakers and seminars, there will also be a raffle held.

Last year, this booth at the Theta Show featured French antiques – so absolutely gorgeous!!

Be sure to read about all the planned activities, times and directions on the Theta Antiques Show web site HERE.    Also on the web site is the story of the beginnings of the Theta Show, along with a history of their admirable philanthropic endeavors.