In the heart of Cumberland County, where creativity and entrepreneurship thrive, one Boiling Springs woman is making a name for herself by turning her fascination with history into a flourishing business. Helming South Mountain Appraisals LLC, she specializes in personal property appraisal, covering everything from paintings and antique firearms to everyday household items.
The woman behind the business, who previously worked with museums and auction houses, says her passion for historical research led her to pursue this path. “I’ve enjoyed the work that goes into researching each item, whether it’s worth a dollar or a million,” she shared. Her career journey began with academic training from the International Society of Appraisers and the Certified Appraisers Guild of America. A master’s degree in fine arts from Penn State, focusing on Victorian Mourning Culture, helped shape her deep interest in artifacts and historical objects.
A Comprehensive Service with Far-Reaching Clients
South Mountain Appraisals offers personal property appraisal services that are often vital for legal and financial reasons. “We don’t appraise real estate, but we handle just about everything else,” the owner explained. The appraisals are used for insurance claims, estate planning, tax documentation, and even divorce proceedings. Written documentation is provided for every item evaluated, offering clients a clear and authoritative report on the value of their possessions.
The business, though based in Cumberland County, has attracted clients from as far as Manhattan, Los Angeles, and even the Isle of Man. Despite the geographic spread of her clientele, the business owner is actively working to strengthen her local presence. “One of my current goals is to connect with local attorneys who might have clients in need of personal property appraisal,” she said, noting the potential in legal partnerships.
South Mountain Appraisals maintains an active presence on Facebook, where curious followers can view a sampling of the diverse and historic items she’s appraised.
Rooted in Community and Local History
While her work spans the nation and beyond, her heart remains firmly in Cumberland County. A self-described lover of local history and nature, she finds joy in exploring the region’s scenic beauty and historical significance. She owns Kaufman’s Station, a verified stop on the Underground Railroad, nestled beside the Wittlinger Nature Preserve in Boiling Springs. “That connection to history is something I truly value,” she shared.
Her business name, South Mountain Appraisals, is inspired by her favorite places in the region, particularly the South Mountain range, Pine Grove Furnace, and King’s Gap. These local landmarks not only ground her business in its surroundings but also reflect her deep-rooted commitment to preserving the stories of the past.
Through her unique work in personal property appraisal, she continues to blend passion with profession, offering a valuable service that honors the legacy of the items she appraises while contributing meaningfully to her community.
