Jerry Michals of Aurora, Colorado tells us that September’s What Is It is a Muffin Bell. “This bell was commonly used by volunteer 19th Century fire fighters. The torch boy or firefighter leading the hand pulled hose reel or hand pumper would ring this bell as he led the way to the fire. These bells usually have an 1850s patent […]
From a speech given by Jon DeStefano to educators, parents and guardian-grandparents on Grandparents Day. . . I think I have a pretty good idea of some of the things grandparents do for their grandchildren and the difference it makes. My wife Peggy and I have 13 grandchildren ages 6 years to 18 years old. While I consider myself somewhat […]
By Robert Reed Histories are more full of examples of fidelity of dogs than friends. – Alexander Pope The dog, man’s best buddy, has long been heralded with artifacts reflecting the close relationship of master and mutt. Everything from precious Staffordshire to colorful cigar labels bear historic witness to that enduring affection. Cookie jars, folk art carvings, and foundry renderings […]
By Charles Dickson, Ph.D. During most of the 20th century those who collected antiques of metal concentrated on items made of iron, brass, copper, silver or pewter. They generally overlooked what they regarded as cheap country tinware. But this has begun to change and collectors are realizing the value of American country tinware produced from the 18th to the early […]
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