Have you stumbled across an interesting old item at home? Could that lamp be a real Tiffany? Have you wondered about that unusual painting that belonged to Grandpa? You can unravel these mysteries at the upcoming Westport Island Antiques Appraisal Event.

The Westport Community Association will be holding an Antiques Appraisal Event on Saturday, May 14 from 3 to 5 p.m. at the historic town hall on Main Road. We encourage the public to bring something for evaluation or more information. If you are planning to bring something to be evaluated, please arrive no later than 2:30 so that your item(s) can be displayed.

If you are a fan of the PBS' “Antiques Roadshow” series, you’ll enjoy this event, which takes its inspiration from the hit show. It is part adventure, part history and part treasure hunt.

What should you bring? Start with something you want to learn more about. It doesn’t have to be antique. You may be curious about a model train, or native American pottery, or a piece of jewelry that belonged to a family member. You will receive accurate information from John Bottero, our professional antiques appraiser who is donating his time to this event. He is the vice president of the Thomaston Place Auction Gallery in Thomaston.

Mr. Bottero has years of experience in evaluating antiques and collectibles ranging from artworks including paintings, prints, lithographs and etchings, to jewelry, pottery, dolls, and other decorative items. Our expert will provide verbal information about your item(s). Please limit what you bring to two (2) per person. The event is free of charge and is sponsored by the Westport Community Association and Fuller Marine Services.

As always our events are free to the public. So come with an item or two, or just come to watch the fun. We always have refreshments at our events. And while you are packing your things to take to this event, remember to include a can or two of nonperishable food or a cleaning item, to drop into our basket for the island’s food pantry. See you on May 14 at 3 p.m. to watch or at 2:30 to help us display your item(s).