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Artiques Road Show reveals local treasures

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David Freeman appraises paintings brought by Greg Sahlstrom.

The British Artiques Roadshow, held at Waneta Plaza last weekend proved to be a resounding success.

Renown appraisers Maureen Wickham and David Freeman were at the local mall last Friday and Saturday to review items and share some of its history.

“One hundred and fifty people from the East and West Kootenay and as far as Vancouver turned up to have their valuables appraised,” said Linda MacDermid, property manager of Waneta Plaza.

“The British Artiques Roadshow is about education and preservation of history,” explained Freeman.

Such was the case for Phyllis Boyce of Fruitvale. She learned about the “hidden” value of her family keepsakes.

Boyce brought in an envelope containing photos, letters and postcards given to her by her grandmother. The photos and memorabilia date back to the late 1890’s and early 1900’s.

One photo is the only remaining family picture that includes a great uncle who died during World War l.

Accompanying the photos, were postcards written to her great grandmother from the trenches.  “This type of postcard is the precursor to what we call Christmas cards today,” said Freeman.

He added people aren’t just interested in what the item is worth but what story it can tell.

“It isn’t the monetary value that is important, these items tell of a family history, and that is what is important to preserve.”

 



Sheri Regnier

About the Author: Sheri Regnier

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