I remember life in the antiques and collectibles field before the 1990s consolidations—when trade newspapers, antiques shows, publishing companies, and even some auction companies were owned by individuals rather than corporations. When you talked to the person in charge, he did not have to consult a corporate policy manual before answering a question or making a commitment. Handshakes were more important than written contracts. If there was a written contact, it was a one-page letter not a ten-page document prepared by corporate attorneys.

I used to have a great deal of respect for the eBay search engine. I no longer do. When a merchant can buy his way to a top position in the listing, as do many websites on general Internet search engines, I get angry. Further, eBay is now pushing its “Buy It Now” items to the top of the listings. EBay was a much better place to shop for antiques and collectibles when it was exclusively an auction environment.

Be Green, Save Green, Look Good

Vintage Clothing Makes Recycling Look Good

By Ashley Kane, About.com

QUESTION: I have a woolen blanket made by the Horner Woolen Company of Eaton Rapids, Michigan that is similar to the ones sold by L.L.Bean. The label suggests the company was founded in 1836. The blanket has stripes at the top and bottom and is in brand new-like condition (no moth holes, no problems). I bought it at the Salvation Army for $9.99. What is its history and worth? – E-mail, LC, Jim Thorpe, PA

While I tell people I collect everything, the honest truth is that I do not. I discriminate, not a lot but some. I have a bad habit of not turning down anything offered for free. Free is free, and I assume I am free to discard it if I have no use for it or desire to keep it, a rare occurrence.

Christmas always brings with it the decision of what to buy for people that you know and love. Many people deal with this by getting a job lot of gift vouchers but I tend to think that is rather unimaginative and dull. This year why not find something a bit different for your friends that they will be able to use and enjoy and also that gives them that extra bit of sparkle which is always important at this time of year.

History of Ornaments

In A.D. 336, an early Roman calendar first mentions December 25 as he date of Jesus’ birth. This date was likely influenced by the year-end pagan festivals to celebrate the harvest. Celebrations included specially prepared meals, decorating of homes, gift-giving and singing. Gradually, pagan traditions became a part of the Christian celebrations. Most Christmas traditions such as the Christmas tree and ornaments came from central Europe. The earliest German Christmas trees were decorated with food; apples, onions, pears, nuts, candies, and fruits were placed on a tree.

Almost all of us have, at one time or another, sent or received a Christmas card. These printed holiday greetings are a mainstay of the Christmas season in the United States and many other countries around the world. But did you ever stop to wonder how this tradition got started? Who sent the first Christmas card?

QUESTION: I have a breakfast set consisting of six cups and saucers, six cereal bowls, 6 plates, and a creamer and sugar. The color transfers feature a pair of Dutch children walking atop a dike with a canal and windmills in the background. The plates are marked “ZELL” on the bottom. An Iowa grandma collected them and believes they were made in the mid-1920s in Germany. I have looked and looked for years in an attempt to find additional pieces but without success. What is my breakfast set worth? – AW, Modesto, CA

Autumn is a great time to get out and visit your favorite antique mall, flea market or local estate sale. For those that like antiquing, this is a favorite Fall past-time. But, if you've never had an interest in antiquing let me give you a few reasons why this is fun, economical, and a great way to recycle.