There were hugs and squeals and hi-theres and handshakes; There was coffee and lemonade, cheese and crackers and lots of laughter. It seems that Capt. Scrap’s Attic on Route 9 in Seaville has become something of an area social center, an all-seasons hangout for both full and part-time locals alike.
It’s easy to see why. There’s no end to the conversation pieces in this chock-full antique mall, and the staff, led by the amiable Nancy (she’s the one with the British accent), are always willing to chat up the stuff, should you be in the mood. Also, the dealers, themselves, are often on hand, especially on the weekends.
There was a lot to chat about, and more than enough conversation pieces, when I showed up for a special Appraisal Day there on December 8. What more can you say about a day that starts out with an antique ferret box.
Did you know that a ferret is brought on a hunt to “ferret out” a fox that has taken cover or gone into a hole in the ground? What a great business this is that you can be in for over three decades and still find something you’ve never seen before.
Enjoy the photos of some of the other things I saw that day. And make it a point to get out to some of the local antique shops this winter. Brings some friends, too; it’s lots of fun, and the learning never stops.
This is my last column until sometime in February. I will be out of the area for several weeks, but the August Farmhouse will remain open. I’ll also have my laptop with me, and will be responding to emails sent to the Herald (see below). So send in your appraisal requests. Be sure to include a photo and a description, and your item could show up in a future column.
Happy New Year, neighbors. May we all enjoy a happy, healthy and lucky 2013.
Arthur Schwerdt, a certified appraiser, is the author of “The Antique Story Book: Finding the Real Value of Old Things,” and co-owner of The August Farmhouse Antiques on Route 9 in Swainton. Send your comments, questions and appraisal requests to aschwerdt@cmcherald.com.
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