Category Archives: Americana

Victory Speed – The Road to Victory was Slow

In terms of history, few events have been studied or recounted more than World War II.  From a collecting perspective most of the emphasis has been on militaria.  Collectors are still looking for and paying good money for those war … Continue reading

Posted in 1940's, Americana, Historical, Jim, Uncategorized, WWII | Leave a comment

Shoe Shine Boxes: Free Enterprise at its Most Basic Form

When it comes to making a living, there isn’t anything that is more basic than shining shoes.   All you need is a box filled with polish, brushes and rags and you’re ready to go! Although having someone shine your shoes … Continue reading

Posted in 1900's, 1910's, 1920's, 1930's, Americana, Historical, Jim | 2 Comments

Not Your Average Dummy

I don’t remember exactly when Jim and I first visited the Landis Valley Museum out in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, but it was probably in the mid-1970’s.  We were particularly fond of museums like that where various historic buildings – homes, … Continue reading

Posted in 1800's, Advertising, Americana, Carol, Historical, Weird | 2 Comments

It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time

I have noticed in my years of collecting that sometimes I seem to find objects that have a connection to each other within a short span of time.  This phenomenon just happened to me in the past month as I … Continue reading

Posted in 1800's, 1900's, 1910's, 1920's, 1930's, Americana, Historical, Jim, Political | 1 Comment

A Busy Day in Dollville, My First Encounter with Bessie Pease Gutmann’s Art

Some antiques and collectibles reach out and grab you.  Your brain tells you, “I must have that!”  So it was when I saw the small metal sign entitled, A Busy Day in Dollville.  Dated 1911, it advertises Diamond Dyes. The … Continue reading

Posted in 1910's, Advertising, Americana, Art, Carol | 12 Comments

The Elephant in the (Family) Room

The phrase “elephant in the room” has become popular in the last few years, often referring to an object too big to ignore or perhaps even a person or topic that simply cannot be overlooked.   For the purposes of this … Continue reading

Posted in 1940's, Advertising, Americana, Costumes, Jim, Planters Peanut, Weird | 3 Comments