May 20th Our May speaker will be Betsy Davison, author of The Furniture of John Shearer, 1790-1820: “A True North Britain” in the Southern Backcountry. The Furniture of John Shearer compiles Shearer’s known fifty-two pieces for the first time, cataloging in detail the thirty-two that she was able to examine. The remaining pieces are recorded in the book with old photographs, thanks to MESDA’s extensive research files. Members present at the end of the meeting will be eligible for a drawing of a free copy of Ms. Davison's book. For copies of this book, a $95 retail book, will be given away.

The Potomac Antique Tools and Industries Association, Inc. (PATINA) is an educational, tax-exempt organization for people who have an interest in the tools, crafts or manufacturing processes of the past.

Formed in 1977, PATINA is a regional tool club based in the Washington, D.C. area. We have members from 24 states, the District of Columbia and several foreign countries. Antique tool collectors, tool users and people simply seeking knowledge are well represented in PATINA's membership. The annual dues of $12.00 includes membership for the entire family and they are welcome to participate in all PATINA events. PATINA's original group of about 30 has grown to over 350!

Our mission is to promote and increase knowledge and understanding of the tools and trades practiced by our American ancestors. This purpose is partly served by the bimonthly newsletter PATINAGRAM which includes member-contributed articles and information of interest to our members. In addition, the PATINAGRAM provides regular announcements of upcoming meetings and auctions, reports on past meetings, reviews of relevant publications, and notices of other tool-related events. As an educational organization, PATINA is often invited to stage exhibits and demonstrations for local and national groups that express an interest in early tools and trades.