Delayed one day because of severe inclement weather, Whitehall Historical Preservation Society held its annual flea market May 18 on the grounds behind the historic Peter Grim Homestead, Mickley and Lehnert roads. WHPS has held the annual flea market for about 15 years.

The society’s home address is 506 Mickley Road, Whitehall. The flea market was held 8 a.m.-1 p.m., followed by the Grist Mill open house held 1-3 p.m.

Stephanie Tashner, WHPS president and editor of the WHPS newsletter, said she was delighted with the turnout, beautiful weather and the work of the many volunteers at the annual event. Tashner is a “grab the bull by the horns” leader who was always hands-on to assist anywhere needed during the event.

Former Whitehall Mayor Mike Harakal Jr. was a volunteer parking coordinator while his wife, Judy, was helping at the baked goods and refreshment area. Others working the baked goods area were Dalay Morales, Alice Lieberman and, at times, Tashner. Other volunteers were scattered around the market.

Morales, of Allentown, is a recent graduate from the Allentown School District. She said she joined the flea market as a volunteer because she thought it would be interesting and fun.

Patrons sifted through a wide range of items for sale at the market.

William Blayle, of Whitehall, cheerfully sold handmade stained glass items and handcrafted woodworked items.

Sisters Angie George, of Schnecksville, and Maria Albright, of Whitehall, offered a wide variety of household items and holiday-themed glasses and other potential holiday gifts. Albright is a recent retired federal law enforcement officer. She noted she is grateful for her career but is enjoying her recent retirement.

Flea markets where vendors sell used, antique and vintage goods have a history that stretches back to the mid-19th century in Paris. The term “flea market” likely originated from the French “marche aux puces” that translates to “market with fleas.”

The name flea market is thought to have come from the perception that secondhand goods sold in the mid-19th century, especially clothing, could be infested with fleas.

The weather was warm with a consistent breeze, the attendance was good, the volunteers happily discharged their duties, and patrons were treated to a wide selection of items for sale whose proceeds would benefit the WHPS.

One brief but notable moment occurred when a bald eagle soared over the event. Seeing a bald eagle fly over can be interpreted in several ways, often a spiritual or symbolic significance. It can be a reminder to take a higher perspective on a situation and/or confidently pursue one’s goals.

It appears the goal-oriented Whitehall Historical Preservation Society, which has engaged with the historical past for decades with many varied events and display a confidence on what they do in totality, is soaring with the bald eagle.

Visit whitehallhistoricalsociety.org to review the schedule of historical education presentations and events.