When members of the Christiana Historical Society were able to secure the William P. Brinton House as their headquarters, they envisioned a place that would not only house their artifacts and historical exhibits but serve as a community gathering place.

Part of that vision became reality as the society presented its first Saturday on the Porch program on March 2. During the event, the community was invited to purchase hot coffee, hot tea and sweets, including whoopie pies, brownies and cookies, while enjoying conversation with friends and neighbors. Also available for sale were historical society mugs.

Musical entertainment was provided by The Smith Family Singers of Coatesville, which included Mary Smith; her husband, Steven Rogers; and her sister, Keisha Smith.

Among those in attendance were historical society members Darlene Colon, society president, and Jim Groff, vice president, who were both pleased with the turnout despite the damp weather. They reported that nearly 50 people stopped by over the course of the morning. Lap blankets were available for people to borrow. "People are enjoying the conversation," said Colon.

Saturday on the Porch will be held on the first Saturday of each month from 8 a.m. to noon through November. The next scheduled event will be on April 6.

Groff reported that the historical society will use the proceeds from the monthly events for the ongoing restoration of the 1867 Brinton House, which is located at 17 Green St., next to Latta Memorial Presbyterian Church. "We really need the funds to fix this house up," he stated.

In addition to the previously mentioned uses, the house and surrounding property will provide extra space for the society's annual open house on Sept. 11, which commemorates the Christiana Resistance. Colon is a descendant of one of the participants in the Resistance. 

Visitors to the March event were able to sneak a peek inside the house, but it is not yet suitable for occupation. There was also a display of photos offered so that visitors could learn about the restoration project. Groff reported that the rotted joists inside the house are currently being replaced and that the building needs a new heating system.

For more information about the society, upcoming events and the restoration project, visit http://www.christianahistoricalsociety.com or search for "The Christiana Historical Society" on Facebook. Those with questions may email info@christianahistoricalsociety.com.