But there’s something to be said for the feel of paper, yellowed with age, the warmth of old family photos and the sturdy feeling of old-world objects. 

The Maitland Historical Society, home the city’s most dedicated historians, will hold an open day this weekend to inspire the community to join and raise some funds to continue their mission.

“There’s an increasing interest in local history… it’s extremely important” president Keith Cockburn said.

“It might sound strange but you can’t have a present without having a past. We can’t have a future without having something to build on.

“Our history is our foundation.”

Mr Cockburn said the sale and open day would also offer an excuse to show the public the Historical Society rooms’ revamped displays, sell some local history publications and invite people new to the area to take in some history of their new community.

“People want to know about the homes they’re buying,” Mr Cockburn said.

“Many people are surprised to realise Maitland was, in its early Colonial days, very significant.

“Morpeth was a shipping hub. We extended into the interior of the country and that’s what lead to our early prosperity.

“Newcastle was just a penal colony, it was bypassed until the discovery of coal.”

The sale won’t sell much in the way of historic artifacts. Instead it will focus on general items and historical publications.

The open day will be held on Saturday November 19 from 8.30am until 3pm at the historical society rooms on Cathedral Street in Maitland.

A gold coin donation is appreciated and tea, coffee and biscuits will be provided.

Anyone interested in joining or supporting the society is encouraged to contact Mr Cockburn on 0438 623 299 or email the maitlandhistoricalsociety@gmail.com