When I find a really good antique store or mall on our travels, I enjoy sharing these finds with all of our collectors. Our recent antique hunting travels have been to 11 states and last year to England. If you have followed some of our adventures I had presented on these e-pages, you may know I have a pattern of showcasing stores or malls that meet certain criteria.

Our plan for the coming year includes hunting adventures to some of our favorite haunts within a day trip from home, and hopefully taking several days to travel to some we have not ventured into. And that’s where I’m asking for your help, to give me some ideas on where to find the best places you have found on your own travels or in your own area.

I’d like to go through Indiana east to Ohio, visit the Rock and Roll Museum in Cleveland, then shop for collectibles on the return trip back to Wisconsin, stopping at the Heart of Ohio Mall, and maybe getting down to Louisville. Another thought included the North Eastern states, since it’s been far too long since we combined antique hunting and lobster eating. And naturally Florida is our normal fall trip.

The type of store or mall we look for need not be on the beaten path, just off a freeway. Those locations are usually found with billboards near an exit, but please include them in your replies if you find them to be a worthwhile stop.

To meet my criteria the place must have a good mix of antiques and collectibles. Staff in good stores are attentive, friendly and helpful, readily opening cases and pointing to like items that may interest us. Booths should be clean and clutter free. Stock rotated so that price tags are not faded to the point wjere it’s not readable. Management should limit items to a certain age or if a mall has newer decorative collectibles or reproductions they should be identified as such and taking a minimum of total space, in separate booths.

Recently we made a visit into Northern Illinois, I had some business in Rockford for my real job and dropped Wifey at the newly reopened “Antiques On East State” (5411 E. State, 815-229-4004) just west of I-90 at State Street exit. This mall and its sister store had closed a while back and had been a favorite for many years attracting customers from great distances. We’re glad to see this one reopen.

After my business meeting and a quick lunch,we headed to another of our favorites, a location we first visited a few years ago and have been back to many times. Wifey said I had not mentioned this location, and wondered if I was trying to keep it as my secret.

The Roscoe Antique Mall located in South Beloit, Illinois is just south of the Wisconsin border, on State Hwy. 75 west of I-90 Exit #1.

We were warmly greeted by owner Gaylene, pictured on the left with staffers Jerry and Bert, at the checkout counter. They helped us find some interesting items, opening locked cases to closely inspect pieces of interest. And boy were they kept busy as we both found so many great treasures.  Of course we can’t buy everything we see, but it’s educational inspecting antiques and understanding their value in today’s market.

The whole mall meets the requirement for our “A” list, and let me just point out some special booths that caught my interest. Kitsch was the theme in this booth, and while not in our current decorating scheme, I like the look. Antique hanging lamps featured near the check-out area. A Masonic goat used in initiation Ceremonies, everyone needs one of these, sits near the checkout counter in an area of many interesting finds.  And other antiques oddities included dental equipment. But that’s what you expect to see in a 20,000 square foot mall with over 100 dealers, with management that only allows items that predate the 1970s, to insure fine items for every collector, every taste, every décor or for the investor looking for a safe investment.

Now I must show you this three chair antique, from a fraternal group and my favorite place to sit while hearing the amount of Wifie’s purchases.

Bill Moore is a stamp collector, but his search didn’t need to extend beyond his own mailbox.   You see, Bill knows a little secret:  pre-sorted stamps and regular stamps have a slight difference.   Pre-sort stamps aren’t checked as rigorously as the postage stamps you or I buy at the post office, so they are missing one security measure.   Standard postage stamps glow under ultraviolet light, but pre-sort stamps don’t.   That is, most pre-sort stamps don’t.  Moore, after scanning his mail every day with a blacklight, has found one lone example of a pre-sort stamp that got a dose of UV-paint.  A combination of issues, from the naked-eye invisibility of the paint to the assurance from the post office that the ink won’t wash or rub off, means that the printing presses that are used to produce stamps aren’t always cleaned completely between jobs.    Sometimes, full sheets get through the machine and collect a dose of the UV paint, while in other cases the result is spotty, with some stamps in a sheet getting phosphorescence while others are skipped.  The pre-sort stamps are produced in such enormous numbers, they’re hardly a rare commodity to collect, but Mr. Moore’s UV-glow stamp is certainly one for him to hold on to.

Collectors of all kinds should take a lesson from Mr. Moore:  ultraviolet light can tell you a whole lot about your collection.   Phosphorescence is a strange property, in which a certain chemical or molecule glows energetically under ultraviolet light.  The effect is striking, because we don’t see the UV light itself, so it appears that the phosphorescent object is illuminated from within.   To tell the truth, you’re probably phosphoring right now:  laundry detergents and toothpaste are two excellent culprits for making a person glow.  Ultraviolet light is a cheap and easily detectable way of revealing an object’s chemical composition, which makes it a very handy tool to collectors of all kinds.

Most glassware people know that vaseline glass glows quite energetically under a blacklight.  Sellers sometimes set up a blacklight to create a dazzling display of their vaseline wares, but it isn’t just for show.   There are quite a few imitators, and sometimes difficult-to-distinguish  relatives like carnival glass, so using a blacklight to check for vaselineware’s authenticity can prove the item’s value.   Incidentally, vaseline glass glows because of faint uranium content, which isn’t exactly dangerous, but means you probably shouldn’t eat off it — another characteristic worth testing with ultraviolet light.  Not all uranium-containing objects glow, though, so don’t trust UV light with identifying Fiestaware.  The construction and glass of the vaseline objects enhance the glow, giving them their otherworldly appearance.

Authenticating antiques goes beyond finding genuine vaseline glass.  Because much of our modern products phosphoresce due to the chemicals used in their creation, it can help in identifying fakes or reproductions.   Natural pigments so not glow nearly as much or as readily, which means most true antiques, those exceeding a century or more, will have far less of a preternatural glow when exposed to black light.     Even if the item is not a pure reproduction or complete forgery, items that have been ‘touched up’ with modern paints, re-glued with modern glues, or stripped with modern solvents are likely to glow under ultraviolet light.   That glow isn’t a complete guarantee of damage, though, as a story from art expert Fred Ross explains.   The painting at the right had been professionally cleaned, but just the face and hands.   One art appraiser interpreted this as evidence of modern alteration — they assumed the face and hands had been repainted later.  Ross, understandably, took the painting to a more experienced appraiser who recognized the difference between a fake and preservation.   Even though the UV light’s results still require interpretation, it can magnify telltales that would otherwise be far more difficult to detect.

So, you want to know where to get one of these ultraviolet light sources?  Aside from your local glowing-poster-headshop, even stores like Wal-Mart often have a small selection of blacklights amongst their normal lightbulbs.   Pet stores also carry them as a color-enhancer for tropical fish or lizards.   These kinds of blacklights will most likely require power from the mains, which makes them less portable than others.   For a portable version, return to your pet store:  small, pocket-sized UV lights are marketed as ‘pet urine detectors’, and usually cost under $20.  If you require something even smaller, companies produce blacklight pens, which resemble a laser pointer and are usually marketed as security devices, for writing secret messages or detecting fluorescent marks in currency.  Remember, blacklights are relatively low-powered, and any fluorescence they detect can be washed out by normal indoor lighting.   If you plan to carry one with when hitting the flea markets or antique shoppes, be prepared to find a dark corner or cover your head with your coat — both which could look quite suspicious to a seller, so check with the seller before heading someplace dark with their wares.   Just explain how important it is to check out the object for the sort of problem a blacklight will detect: it could be the difference between buying junk or a gem.

Part of me would like to keep the best antique shopping locations to myself, but by sharing my adventures in antiquing with you, I’m hopeful you will share your favorite places with the rest of us.

Last weekend we went antique hunting. It’s what we do often. While garage sales, flea markets and estate sales are choice places to shop, they are mostly warm weather events and in cold weather we prefer indoor auctions and antique stores and malls. Wifey had scheduled Saturday for our first outdoor auction of the season, but with temperatures in the 30’s, no sun and a chance of rain, we decided to go to plan ‘B’, and explore new territory. Since we had plans for the evening I did not want to travel a great distance, but felt we should check out a place we had not hit before, and believe me there aren’t many.

Our choice was an antique shop in Volo, IL., The Volo Auto Museum and Antique Mall, located at US 12 and state road 120, a place I had passed by years before while on my real job but did not stop.

Leaving early for our drive that took a bit over an hour, we arrived just as they were opening the doors at 10:00 am. We were greeted at the door by one of their many friendly personnel that explained the layout, offered us a shopping basket to carry our finds and gave us a note card to write down case numbers we wanted opened.

We found these amenities almost unnecessary as help was always nearby to assist, answer questions, open locked cases, and carry our purchases to the check-out counter. Watching what our interests were, they even pointed out ‘like’ items in other booths. But no fear, these were not overbearing hoverer’s, just efficient staff.

We knew we were in for a long day; this mall is filled with great dealers, good variety, quality items, and price ranges to insure great hunting for all. We found some super items.

I spotted this item early in our hunt. It’s a convention badge marked S.N.P.J. Lodge 38 (Kenosha, Wisconsin)and when I brought it to the counter, one of the staff members gave a call to her hubby and got us the name of the group it was from. (What dedication to customer service.)

Too small to use, without starving while making a full meal, we assume this waffle iron is a salesman’s sample. It’s marked Stover Junior #8.

Featuring a Mother Of Pearl front face, this large shiny metal compact signed Volupte’, came in a black cloth carry bag with Lucite comb in a pocket, and unused powder puff.

Now, who can live without this aluminum napkin holder, Not Wifey. Great design work.

I spotted this woodworker’s plane, small in size but not unusual, till I inspected the material carefully. To my surprise the body is black thermoformed plastic called Bakelite.

Too wonderful to pass up, this copper inkwell and pen holder features a cast nude figure holding an urn. Splashes of ink on the base confirm its age. Wifey wants to stick a candle in the urn and display it on the mantle (there is no room on her desk.)

To my embarrassment, I missed this item when I went through a booth, but wifey spotted it with ease.

It’s an old waffle iron with ceramic top. In need of cleaning but the top is very nice. To explain another reason why we will be back often, a member of the staff searched diligently for an electrical cord she felt was with the item.

Now please do not fret, with the items mentioned above and an arm load of other gems, carried to our car by another helper, we still left tons of antiques and collectibles for your shopping pleasure.

Map

In business since 1964, this well run mall is directed by managers Lisa, Marilyn and owner Carolyn. If you’re in the area, (50 miles West of Chicago) this place is worth a visit. Check with Marilyn or Carolyn at 815-344-6062, if you need directions , want to confirm holiday openings or have questions. Their hours are 10 to 5, 7 days a week.

If you’ve read my last two blogs, you’ll know that hubby and I have been following an auction, from the collection of items to the set-up phase and now, on to the sale itself. It has made us realize just how much work goes into an auction and how great it is to have a cohesive team that can pull it together. And still smile!

The auction was held on Monday, March 31st, with a busy viewing period before the auctioneer started testing the microphone promptly at 6:00. This particular auction house starts with furniture and it moved along quickly. There was a beautiful East Lake Mirror that sold to a happy bidder for only $50.

One of the items in their flyer and on the net was this delightful Steiff dog on wheels. A German Shepherd, quite large and in fantastic condition, and it would bark when you pulled the lever. The young couple that purchased it said they’d seen it in the ad and did not think they’d be able to win it. But win it they did, and they were so pleased. (It sold for $140.)

Another item that was quite desirable was the antique paddle-wheel boat that Mark is presenting. They stated that it had a few minor ‘issues’, but definitely a treasure and a true oldie. It brought some heavy bidding and closed at $600.

There were several lovely bird pictures by artist Carl Priebe. There was also a penciled print, with a note of dedication to the original owners from the artist. That one sold for $200. Another item they had advertised was the ‘dog trick bank’, cast iron and definitely an antique. It sold for $300. Several other cast iron banks went up for sale but the auctioneer advised that they were not ‘of age’, but rather reproductions, most likely from the 1960s. They sold for considerably less and left you with a good feeling that this is indeed an honest house.

As is common for this particular auction service, there was a lot of jewelry. From Victorian mourning pins to contemporary diamond and ruby rings to signed rhinestone pins from Weiss, Kramer and the like. All of these were nicely displayed in cases and described on printed sheets that were handed out to those interested before the auction started. That was a helpful point of reference and made it easy for you to be sure you were bidding on the right grouping. The young lady displaying this case is the daughter of Dan, the auctioneer.

There was also a nice selection of lanterns to be considered. These were sold to various bidders and the prices were varied as well. We were surprised to see one from the New York Central Railroad bring only $60. Someone walked away with a bargain. There were several albums with post cards. One sold for $375, much higher than the first one, even though it contained less cards. We are sure there were some very special cards in that album.

The auction moved along very smoothly and you could see how well the staff worked together. They would anxiously ’spot’ for the auctioneer, who cannot possibly see everyone and every paddle. The runners would promptly deliver items and if it was a larger piece, would hold it in the back of the room, or ask if help was needed in taking it to the car. While Dan auctioned items, the owner, Julie, was the one recording all the sales, and you could tell she’s very efficient after over 25 years in the business.

I had just adored the little German papier mache’ bunny with springy ears and was disappointed to see it sell to another bidder. The lucky winner was right behind us and she told me she could not resist it. So I knew it was going to a good home after all.

We were lucky enough to get a treasure for ourselves. For many years, a friend and I have exchanged flamingos. First as a joke, with the pink, plastic yard-art figures and later on with mugs, glasses, plates, pictures, etc. Well, we found the ultimate flamingo decoration. A large metal piece from an old screen door! We’ll be finding a place for it in our bathroom and our friend will certainly be jealous.

It was a wonderful experience, seeing an auction from this vantage point. Appreciating how they worked together and how much goes on ‘behind the scenes.’ They estimated it would be midnight before the auction ended and then the ‘tear-down’ would begin. For many years, the staff has gone out to breakfast afterwards, to unwind and discuss the current and future sales. We must say that we felt it was a “job well done!” We thank Julie and ‘the crew’ for their kindness and ‘free education.’

It occurs to me that many of you Thursday Thirteen-ers only stop in here on Thursdays and may not only miss my other great posts, but not even know of the other great writers here at Collectors Quest. So today I’m going to bring you thirteen of my favorite CQ posts — not made by me — in order to show-off the delightful, the charming, CQ writing staff. Each of us are an acquired taste (that’s how we describe ourselves as it sounds nicer than ‘weirdo’), so I’m sure you’ll find others to love along with (not ‘instead of’) me.

I would consider it a personal favor if you read them and left a comment at those posts you find most interesting, illuminating or, as I often do, amusing.

Collin

Collin’s love of action figures and all-things-comic is mind-blowing. Just knowing there are this many heroes and characters is nearly beyond my comprehension, but Collin knows them all. His single-minded obsession might lead you all to think he’s a pasty man-boy who never leaves his parents’ basement — but nay, he does! Not only does he work at the library, but his coverage of events for CQ is proof that this is indeed a man about town — so long as that part of town has comic books or toys.

This (#1) is my favorite post of Collin’s from this year’s toy fair.

I also love it when he’s been on assignment covering things off his usual beat (#2) — seeming as out of sorts as I would be at a comic book convention.

I kid Collin a lot, because well frankly, I’m pretty sure he can’t kick my butt. No, seriously, he’s funny and what’s not to love about a man who is as fond of finger puppets (#3) as I am?

However, my favorite Collin post remains the one about Jeffry Tambor’s pants (#4).

Derek (my hubby)

To be fair, most of what hubby writes I already know. Not because I’m big and brainy like that, but because as husband & wife we talk a lot about the stuff we’re going to write here and so I’ve heard it before I’ve read it. But neither that nor my affection for him should dilute a presentation of some Derek linkage.

Derek’s got a love of paper and lots of posts to prove that, but I’m going to ask you to read this post (#5) and this post (#6) and double-dog dare you not to give me some much-deserved sympathy for being the wifey to such a crazy man.

Crazy has its upside too. Collecting Filmstrips (#7) is an indulgence of mine as well and notable for the recent not only projects filmstrips, but plays records — two great tastes that go great together!

Val Uble

Val’s funny (as if you couldn’t tell from her moniker byline) but her posts also have the additional charm of sentimentality which can often be overlooked at many collectible sites and in collecting publications. The result is reading what could otherwise be overheard listening to any grandma talk at the dinner table. If only fresh hot rolls were served as I read them — pass the butter, please!

Exhibit A is this piece on cottage prints (#8). And Exhibit B, this bit of history on watch fobs (#9).

I wonder how she’s doing on her New Year’s resolutions? (#10)

The Dean

Also a grandparent, The Dean waxes a bit nostalgic now and then and provides a perspective on time that offers big-picture context.

In his piece on childhood toys (#11) I was a bit humbled to think of all the Barbies and other toys I had piled in toy boxes and under my bed.

If that piece struck home personally, his posts about obscure and perhaps odd collectibles (#12) reminds us each, again, that anything can be coveted and collected when the right beholder discovers it.

It should remind me to be less snarky and mocking…

But then The Dean reminds me that most collectors are a humorous lot (#13).

The writers here sure prove that.

================

Get the Thursday Thirteen code here!

The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted!

View More Thursday Thirteen Participants