A Touch of Glass Antiques

It happens all the time on the TV show Antiques Roadshow. Perhaps that is what makes the show so popular. The element of surprise in finding that unexpected treasure. On a more local note, this same activity can be seen every weekend as many enthusiastic “Garage Sale” hunters hit the road searching for that one special item of interest. They drive for miles throughout the countryside, poke through layers of “stuff” and collect numerous items to be taken home and cherished, or for some sold on e-bay. These “pickers” are always hoping for that one over looked item of great value. According to their stories, it does happen. The odd colored marble that was placed at an opening bid  of $10.00 suddenly garnered great attention. The flurry of rising bids was equal to the owner’s pounding heartbeat excitement. I understand it finally sold for nearly one thousand dollars.

Anyone that has had such an experience likens it to winning the lottery. A great high, a financial boost, but of course the odds are known to be high against such a moment. And yet, both the lottery and e-bay posts continue with increasing participation. So the search continues for that one item out there, waiting to be discovered.  Garage sales and Estate Tag sales remain a favorite destination site for eager pickers and antique hunters alike.

The chair in the photo was found in a local home and brought to the once a month warehouse garage sale at 45 N Fulton St, Homer. The owner is downsizing and decided to sell this chair that belonged to her grandfather. It appears to be a simple captain’s chair, but the story she shared makes it very special. During the early 30s, The Glenn Haven Hotel was a popular destination site after a long day on the farm. Each man had his own chair and it was understood that only he sat in it. Henry Morris lived nearby on the family homestead with his wife Margaret. A hard worker and devoted family man, he often relaxed in his chair and enjoyed relaxing  with other farmers and neighborhood friends. The photos on the chair and under the seat provide the details. Despite originally placing this special chair for sale, with the interesting history of this amazing treasure, the owner has decided to donate it to the Glenn Haven Historical Society.

The busiest time of year for garage sales is quickly fading as summer ends and the holidays season begin. Auctions and Estate sales will be the more visited destinations,”Garage Saling” will be put on hold until next year. Still treasures await to be found and purchased. As an Antique and Collections dealer of many years, I too look forward to the next “pick” or sale. May we all be successful treasure hunters.

Kathleen Beardsley, ATOG owner