This past weekend’s Parlett Farm auction brought together local residents looking to take away a piece of local history, collectors and museum representatives from all over the country, farmers, and members of the Amish and Mennonite communities.
The auction featured the sale of the massive antique agricultural collection amassed over the years by the late John Knight Parlett, Sr., a former county commissioner and Maryland House of Delegates member. The items were shown every year at the Southern Maryland Farm-Life Festival in the fall that raised money for Christmas in April-Southern Maryland.
The decision to sell the collection was made by Parlett’s widow Kitty and her family when it became evident that it would be impossible for them to maintain it. Her son, John K .Parlett Jr., at the midpoint of the three-day auction said things were going smoothly, as the John Deere collection was being auctioned.
The proceeds of the auction will allow the family to keep the farm going while they decide what to do with the property.
At the St. Mary’s County Commissioners meeting on Tuesday, Commissioners Todd Morgan (R: 4th) praised Mrs. Parlett and her family. “They have done an extraordinary job to preserve Americana.” He said some local collectors picked up some of the items so they will remain in Southern Maryland.
