Part Time Research Assistant
Wood & Co.
Hector the Collector was a playful nickname for my husband, a big man with a big life and many passions. Since his passing, medical equipment, clothing and shoes were shared with a few family members, donated, and repurposed. He was successful in convincing me about “quality” in a good many things or his collecting bug was contagious. Admittedly, I have emotional attachment to some of his belongings.
His closet is now two thirds empty housing sport jackets, suits, shirts Hawaiian, and fishing, eight cowboy hats and other Panama hats. Upstairs, out of sight are several guitars and a couple amplifiers. To Hector’s credit, he sold and parted with an upright piano and bass years ago. Cases of books and records are in storage. Feeling a bit rested I’m digging in.
Saddles, spurs, lasso and some other horse paraphernalia was my first-round items posted. Comparison pricing was anticipated. Using FB marketplace and photographing items was manageable. Describing the items as a seller rather than an owner or lover of such is where things got dicey.
Interested viewers questioned size/measurements of parts I didn’t know existed. I’m so grateful we carry these computers called phones rather than needing to consult experts or travel to the library to research. Had I been an ideal spouse I may have listened attentively as my late husband shared at length all the details and history these about the particular treasures. Listening was not my best attribute. I found illustrations of saddles all the parts labeled and how-to-measure instructions. Who knew there were so many details about Riata/lariat/lassos? Still in the throes of learning. Spurs (I pray, are for style/costume instead of use on a horse) are guaranteed to result in late night notifications. Really, 12, 2 and 4 AM!
Week one sold a saddle. Week 2 a Cannondale racing bike and a vintage Stetson hat. I did some research on bike parts, measurements and rephotographing details for a prospective buyer. Then I got cracking, doing a short video wearing the Stetson and then close ups of the interior. These sales made buyers very happy and will give life to these objects. I expect to hear back from them. Two more hats and the two sets of spurs are to find new homes this weekend.
I jumped out of bed this morning and downloaded an antique app to identify/appraise items. Amazing! Quickly entered all of Gary’s fountain pens, pipes, and a couple of pieces of china. Then I visited a small collectable shop near home with the pen collection. Shop owner thought the prices on the app were on target. We lamented about the economy, books, vinyl, area art scene and made plans to be in touch in near future. I have enjoyed meeting some of the people so far.
Hector the Collector in a professorial style, explained, instructed and lectured me on his collectibles countless times. The irony of researching and curating is amusing greatly somewhere, somehow. Gotta love a man with a great sense of humor.
I bet Hector the Collector is guiding your every line of research and interaction with each future collector who will prize his possessions.
Yet another way, dear Michele, that you honor Gary.
Loved this! I started reading, then decided to listen. One suggestion: is it possible to place the audio at the very beginning of the post so we know it’s available?
After listening to Hector’s collectibles, I feel I know him, you, and your marriage better. You’re always so down-to-earth. This quality makes it easy for your readers to connect with you personally. The voiceover enhances that.
It was fun hearing about all the different things that he collected. Luckily, it sounds to me like most of these are things that people would like to buy. You honor him by so thoughtfully finding new homes for his treasures.
I admire your straightforward approach to life, the love you feel for Gary, and also your tendency to be practical and get down to business.
One more suggestion, for some reason, I had trouble enlarging the picture so I could see the details. It might be nice to include three separate pictures to help us see the details better - though I realize it would probably be awkward, knowing how to position them in the post.
My best to you Michele, as you continue living after Gary’s passing. I can imagine he’s chuckling while he watches you research, and is touched by your care with his treasures.