Mailbox Letters – August 2013

Posted on 2 August 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Please feel free to send any antique bottle or glass questions to ferdinand@peachridgeglass.com. The information will be posted if relevant or of interest to the readers. I will try to answer or wait for another reader to respond. Quality images are very important. Thanks! If you want to see previous questions,go to “Mailbox Letters” in “Categories” on the right column of each page.

Perky – Pet (embossed hummingbird) Since 1958

Hi Ferdinand. Hope you and your family are doing well. My wife and I were at Lowes Home Improvement Store. While walking down a aisle at the store, out of the corner of my eye, I spotted what looked like a bright red up-side-down Warner’s Cure bottle. After making a sharp bee-line turn and heading toward the bottle, this is what I found. Pics attached. A brand new bottle that is embossed Perky – Pet (embossed hummingbird) Since 1958 / Lititz, Pa. The price was $17.99 My wife had to have it to hang in our wooded area.

Frank (Wicker) www.bottlepickers.com

Irish Ginger Beer and Stone Stout Bottle Book

Greetings everyone, Just a quick update on the Irish Ginger Beer and Stone Stout Bottle Book. The last eighteen months have been somewhat of a trial with negotiations with NAMA to photograph bottles within their possession (which incidentally were to prove fruitless), the ill health of my good friend and joint editor Eugene Markey and a thousand and one other challenges. However the deadline for material has arrived and the final curtain on photographs and information regarding new bottles will descend on the last day of September. So please would any outstanding offers of photos of new bottles be followed up and the necessary information forwarded to me as a matter of urgency. Thanking you all for the help and support previously given.

Sincerely, Neil Cutcliffe

Mossley Rectory 558 Doagh Road, Newtownabbey
email: rathdunebottles@hotmail.co.uk
Tel 028 90 832726

Website: Irish Ginger Beer and Stone Stout Bottles

Unembossed Imperial Levee Find

Hi Ferd, I’m hoping that you can help me a little bit. I came across this bottle at a local yard sale here in Sacramento. Unfortunately, it’s not green, blue, or even embossed. If I’m correct in my research, this appears to be an un-embossed version of the Imperial Levee bottle. The bottle is free from any nicks, chips, or cracks – and appears to be an iron pontil as well. If it is an Imperial Levee bottle, what would be a reasonable value to expect out of a bottle like this? Thank you in advance for any help/information you can give me.

Kevin Korper

PRG: Great find Kevin! Always a favorite. You could get between $2,200 and $3,000, maybe a bit more if the bottle really sang.

Read: James Noyes – Hollywood, Mississippi & the Imperial Levee

Warrock Confectioner – Jacksonville, Florida

Doing some research and ran across this advertisement. I know you are a graphics man.
1879 Jacksonville City Directory. Pretty cool, didn’t see any Bitters related items. – Bobby (Hinely)

PRG: Bobby: You are right. This is pretty cool. The peppermint or candy cane sticks reminded me of getting a cut lemon and half a stick of peppermint at fairs and carnivals in Baltimore as a child. The peppermint stick would be inserted in the lemon like a straw and you would suck the lemon juice. My wife though I was nuts when I mentioned this memory to her this morning. In Texas you ask for big Dill Pickles before movies. I think that is weird. She tried that on the east coast at a theatre and they looked at her like she was a Martian. Nice to see you at Manchester.

Veterinary Clinic Bottles

My wife worked for a veterinary clinic and acquired a set of various bottles. I was wondering if you thought anyone at the Houston Bottle Show may be
interested in taking these of her hands. You know many folks and we were just asking.

Peter Marshall

Baby Feeder Question

Hi. Found you on the internet. Could you tell Me about this baby bottle? Made by Evans Eclipse, Made in England. My Parents came from Ireland. I believe My Mom said it was hers when she was kid. I’m in Missouri now. Thanks! – Phil

PRG: Suggest you pursue question or visit website of American Collectors of Infant Feeders (ACIF)

Boy Holding Clock Figural

I have been searching for 50 years for any information on my glass bottle my
daughter found it for me on your site. It is the boy holding the clock on his
shoulder. What can you yell me about it? I Am so thrilled to find you. Sue

Restoration of the WWII Destroyer HMS Cavalier

Hallo, I am one of the several Ships Volunteers working on the restoration of the Memorial and Historic WWII Destroyer HMS Cavalier in the Historic Dockyard at Chatham.

I have taken on the job of restocking the Naffi shop onboard with appropriate items 0f the 1960’70’s era. I am thinking in particular of the Quix Ink, Black or Blue Black. This ink was so significant to us for we all wrote many letters home with our Parker pens and Quix ink while well away from our loved ones. I wonder if you can find a source of donors of those famous rectangular squat bottles, or even a good small advertisement showing them. I have many shelves to fill and hopefully look forward to a succsesful response while appreciating your help.

Mike J. Fleet.

N. K. Brown’s Iron & Quinine Bitters

Dear Ferdinand,

I happened across your site while looking for images of either or both of the bitters mentioned in the letter written by Robert B. Watkins of Kernersville, NC, which you have on your site. I grew up in Kernersville and in the last few years have written two local history books with a friend of mine.

Read: N. K. Brown’s Iron & Quinine Bitters – Burlington, Vermont

We have just completed a third book and it has a story in it about this same Robert B. Watkins called “A Hot-Headed Druggist.” I would very much like to find an image or two of these Bitters to illustrate this story in the book, but have been unable to find one that seems to have no copyright issue attached to it. I thought you might have a suggestion for me.

By the way, I lived in Maryland from 1967-1987 and attended law school at the U. of Maryland School of Law in Baltimore and later became a member of the Maryland bar. I am retired now and living in NC again.

Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated. I should add you have a great website and can see why people get so interested in collecting bottles and such.

Michael L. “Mike” Marshall

PRG: No problem to use any pictures with a caption Meyer Collection.

All Laxative Stomach Bitters Question?

Greetings!! Was hoping you could help me figure out what to do with
this bottle (see attached pics). It is full and the seal is intact. The
label is in nice shape but loose in a couple places. Tried to sell it
on E-Bay but they wouldn’t take it because of the alcohol content and
someone else said to pour it out and sell the bottle but I hate to ruin
the authenticity of the piece. Help! What do I do? Thanks for your help!

Skip Ellis
Bradenton, FL

Skip: This is a later bottle as far as what I collect. I certainly would not empty the bottle.

Augauer Bitters Wanted

Hello, Mr. Meyer. I read with interest your article about Augauer Bitters. If you happen to know of anything else for sale, I would be interested, although my funds are limited. Augustin Gauer was my g-g-g-grandfather, and I’m looking for some items for my mom. Thanks!

Janet Payne Beck

Read: Augauer Bitters and the Gauer Family – Chicago

Janet: Please watch ebay and I will also keep my eye out for an example. They are not pricey.

Dear Ferdinand & Elizabeth,

I am currently producing an editorial of glass making history, which is envisaged to be published in USA. My own expertise of glass spans 45+ years and I am consulted by many due to my knowledge. I would like to include American glass within my editorial, and my current research has led me to your site.

With your permission I kindly ask to include one of your a photographs and its attribution for the perusal of the publishers, which may or may not be used, however full credit and acknowledgment to yourselves would be included if used. Please get back to me at your convenience.

Best regards
Colin Boone

www.rubylane.com/shop/classyglassantiques

Hundreds of Quality Jars

I have hundreds of quality jars that belong to my mother that I am wishing to sell to a collector or dealer in one lot. I am in Owensboro Kentucky. Please pass the word and let me know if anyone is interested. I have pictures I can forward. Thanks

Allen Lake

Not a common sense type Inkwell

Mr. Meyer:

I recently found your website. I’ve only been collecting inkwells, mostly common sense-types, for about six months. A week ago I purchased one because it caught my eye. It’s not a common sense type. In fact, I was unable to match it with anything on the internet. That is, until I found your website. The inkwell I found – see attached – looks a lot like one pictured on your site as C-1173.

The inkwell I have is light green with 14 ribs and it measures 2 inches high by 2 1/8 inches in diameter. I’m bringing it to your attention because you seem to have a passion for all things glass. Any insights you can provide will be greatly appreciated. Frank E Wiedmann

NOTE: Gray mark on the inside of the base is actually a dead spider which came with the inkwell.

Subject: William James Moxham

Dear Sir,

I came across a posting of Barron Moxham Whiskey Label that read as quoted below on your website, headed Mail Box February 2013. It was as shown as being signed by a Jane Melbourne. Moxham is a very unusual name and I thought I knew of all his descendants. I am William Moxham’s Great Grandson and it is fascinating to think that there is a Jane in Melbourne of that line. There is a Jane Moxham in Sydney but she is unwell and I doubt she is doing anything about the family tree often passing on to me material which the Sydney Jane says I might do more with the she.

Can you please tell me what you can about how I can contact this Jane in Melbourne. If you feel that there are privacy issues which need to be respected can you please pass onto the Melbourne Jane my email address and ask her to contact me telling her I too have been researching William both in Australia and his British Naval Records.

Can I please thank you in anticipation of your forth coming help and in thanking you I acknowledge that passing on information like this is not your primary interests.

Dr Kenneth E Moxham
Adelaide Australia

Read: Advertising pieces provided by Michael Dolcini

Chevalier Angelo M F Gianelli

Dear Mr. Meyer,

I am a great great granddaughter of Chevalier Angelo M F Gianelli. I read your wonderful web page about his bitters and their bottles (read: Royal Italian Bitters by A.M.F. Gianelli – Montreal), and his life. Until now I only had info regarding his activities as Italian consul to Canada. So it was fascinating to hear about his restaurant, his cure for rheumatism etc. I am writing not only to thank you for this invaluable information but also to ask if you might have come across any information as to his wife’s name, especially her birth name. I am researching the family tree and it would be a huge help if you happen to have any information you can direct me to about her.

Much appreciated, Lesley Forrester
Stirling, Ontario, Canada

PRG: I am coming up with Fanny Catherine Compain

More….

Dear Mr. Meyer,

My name is Deborah Gianelli and Angelo M. F. Gianelli was my great-grandfather. Of all of AMF’s children, my grandfather, Charles A. Gianelli was the only one to leave Canada and become a citizen of the U.S. I grew up in New York and now live in New Jersey (and work in NYC).

I believe you have been in touch with my “cousin,” Lesley Forrester. She and I spoke for some time yesterday (for the first time), and she told me about the beautiful bottles that still exist from the business AMF had in Canada. Despite having an amazing scrapbook belonging to my grandfather that contains quite a bit of information about his father, I never knew about this business. My father told many stories about his family, but I did not know that AMF was a businessman in Canada before becoming the Italian Consul General.

The bottles and their history intrigue me, as I’m sure you can understand. Are any of them still for sale? I just thought I’d inquire. My father, Alfred Gianelli, was born in 1900 and was 52 when I was born. I have no American Gianelli relatives (whom I knew) still living. I do not know the Canadian relatives at all. So I have been on sort of a mission to connect some of the dots and know more about my heritage.

Thank you for any information you can provide about these exquisite bottles.

Best regards,

Deborah (Deborah Gay Gianelli)

PRG: Deborah: How interesting and fun it must be to learn more about AMFG. His bottles are tough to find and usually break the $1,500 mark in good condition. I paid over $1,500 for mine (pictured above) in 2005. I will keep my eye out. If you have any more support info, maybe you could send a digital copy my way. F

Fraser Canyon Find

Hello Ferdinand, My name is Jill and I am currently working with a field school that was doing some research in the Fraser Canyon, British Columbia, Canada. We stumbled upon a broken glass bottle and are trying to identify it. Since we only have a portion of the bottle this has proven to be very difficult. It is an aqua, rectangular bottle, with an open pontil on the base. There is embossing on both the side and what we assume to be the front of the bottle. I have attached three photos of the bottle. If you are able to help us identify the bottle that would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you in advance, Jill

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Daily Dose – August 2013

Posted on 1 August 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

August 2 0 1 3

Some ramblings and thoughts…

Saturday, 31 August 2013

Last day of another hot dry month. The local news last night said Houston, which is typically semi-tropic, is 5 feet +/- under rain level since Hurricane Ike. Galveston is 8 feet+/ deficient.

Submitted the above art to the FOHBC Lexington National committee. Win, Place and Show awards will be given for each bottle category. If you remember we had the Shootout at the 2012 Reno Expo and the Bottle Battle at the 2013 Manchester National. We will also have a themed, judged event on coolest hat.

“Run For The Roses” Bottle Competition

The “Run for The Roses” bottle compitition will be held at the Hyatt Regency on Friday, August 1^st after the Banquet. There will be three categories. Each category will have three judges. The categories are:

Midwestern Swirl Decanters
Historical Scroll Flasks
Wax Sealer Jars

Security will be provided.

For additional information contact: Jamie Houdeshell, phone: 419.722.3184, e-mail jhbottle@hotmail.com.

Friday, 30 August 2013

Finally got the two unlisted GERMAN ARMY BITTERS (lightning strikes twice) posts up. One for the German Army Bitters from Ironton, Ohio and the second for the Dr. Nauman’s German Army Bitters.

The Price’s Patent Texas Tonic post was updated with new material from James Viguerie. THIS IS CRAZY. Getting in material for a Foote’s Texas Tonic Bitters and a Prindle’s Texas Tonic Bitters from James.

Tommy Mitchiner Death

Ferd,

Just wanted to let everyone know about the death of long time collector, digger, and friend, Tommy Mitchiner. I don’t know the details but he had been sick for several years but always bounced back.

Tommy was one of the pioneer diggers (he started 50 years ago or longer) in the south especially the Savannah area. Over the years he collected many different categories. Years ago he had a run of Kelly’s that were outstanding. He also had as fine a collection of John Ryan’s as has ever been assembled. He loved the John Ryan’s so much that is what he named his son, John Ryan Mitchiner.

Over the last few years he concentrated on Georgia Hutchinson sodas. He had
hundreds different ones.

Tommy was one of the nicest people I have ever met. The hobby lost another great one.

Thanks

Jack (Hewitt)

Read: Rare Hutchinson’s enthuse Georgia collector

Thursday, 29 August 2013

Looks like we may have a name(s) for the scammers. Read about Steven Dujardin on growing SCAM post.

Like this wagon picture. The original Mayer Bottling Plant. Charles Mayer is standing in front of wagon with hat and vest on. The wagon to the right appears to be driven by Joseph Drackert. He owned the Drackert delivery, hauling and storage company in Hammond and delivered the bottles for Charles. The two young boys are probably Charles’ sons. ** (Hammond Brewing Co. Indiana)

Wednesday, 28 August 2013

Make SURE you keep up with the daily UPDATES to the SCAM log.

Lot 821 in the 1990 Swanson sale. Terrific eagle print, lovely gold band and most of the side seal. Not a US lid but made for this market. Just a wonderful thing! – Greg Dean

Tuesday, 27 August 2013

Another SCAM coming out of the same locale as the other recent scams. Thanks to Bruce at Western Whiskey Tool Top Gazette for spotting. Added to Scam catalog post. This person is very resourceful in the variety of scam techniques.

Yet another unlisted bitters surfacing. That being a Humboldt’s German Bitters from Chicago. Stay tuned.

Monday, 26 August 2013

Back to school today for the junior pops. Certainly a sign that the summer is coming to a close. Maybe some rain at Peach Ridge this morning which we desperately need.

Found out last week that United Airlines, which has a major hub in Houston, has stopped direct flights into Reno. How am I going to get Coco to Downieville. Have a flight reserved into Sac now. Thought about taking one of Elizabeth’s horses!

What’s this I’m hearing about three Alex Von Humboldts found in or near Downieville?

Great new incoming material from James Viguerie regarding Morning Call Bitters.

Hearing that the first readers and Fed members are getting their copy of the Sep Oct issue of Bottles and Extras. Totally dedicated to the Manchester National. I hope you enjoy.

Sunday, 25 August 2013

Quiet here early Sunday morning. Dogs are all up and on my first cup of ground French Roast. Made a connection and getting in lots of good material from James Viguerie in a broad spectrum ranging from a Horse Shoe Bitters comment (read comment at bottom of post), info regardig two rare Southern medicines (read: Two rare and early ‘Southern’ Bottles) and Texas Druggists (see above picture).

Also, if you can believe it, finishing up posts on two unlisted bitters, both with a similar name! I’ll give you a hint with the above flag, coat of arms and seal.

Friday, 23 August 2013

Working out of Peach Ridge today. Elizabeth and Adriana just left for a 3-day horse event outside of Fort Worth. Two of the junior pops (my grandkids) are here with me…and six dogs and a cat.

How many of you were contacted by the scammer yesterday with the fake image? Looks like two versions were circulating.

Hi Ferdinand, Just wanted to let you and the collecting community know that the Pittsburgh double eagle picture was swiped from my website. www.antiquebottlesales.com. It can be found under the “sold items” at the bottom of the flask category on my page. Thanks,

Matt Lacy

Liking this Oxygenated Bitters package on ebay. Ex: Greer bottle and handbill. Just love those aqua pontiled bitters.

Read: Oxygenated Bitters – A Sovereign Remedy

Passing of Ronald Rasnake of Ft Pierce Florida

It is with great sadness in my heart that I have to report to you all the passing of my Honorary Brother, Mr. Ronald Rasnake of Ft Pierce Florida. He and I were very close friends for over 40 years. He is another long time Deland M-T Bottle Club member, a longtime FOHBC member and the holder of the largest Pictorial Case Gin Collection Archive in the world. My deapest Sypathy goes out to his lovely wife Sue and their children. I just found out a few minutes ago from his close friend in Ft Pierce and I just got off the phone with his wife Sue. Ron died of a sudden heart attack on August 16th and was laid to rest yesterday. My Brother you are another Antique Bottle Colelcting ICON that will be missed by many a collector around the world. I for one will sorely miss you. The fun times and jokes and bottle finding stories we used to share. Please pass on to all whom you know in the bottle collecting community that we have lost another great bottle collector and dear friend. Thank You.

Dwight A. Pettit Jr., SMSgt, USAF (Ret)
President Deland Florida M-T Bottle Club

http://www.legacy.com/obituaries/tcpalm/obituary.aspx?pid=166523735#fbLoggedOut

Thursday, 22 August 2013

Bitters News: Gary Beatty (North Port, Florida) scored twice on ebay recently with a Morning Call Bitters and a Home Bitters.

Hi Ferd, I got a Morning Call Bitters off eBay ‘Buy It Now’. 35 people were watching it so I had to make a decision fast. It is medium to dark amber. Not as pretty as yours but no damage. Probably a couple days on my tumbler just to fine tune it. It has not been dug? (who knows for sure?) But no scrapes or scratches. It is still pretty rare is it not? And was it from Cincinnati or St. Louis? Best regards, Gary

Ferd, here is the Morning Call. It does not need a tumble. I cleaned it with Ka Boom! You can put it on the PeachRidge if you want. I paid $700, did I over pay? Is it a Cincinnati or St. Louis Bottle. Best Regards, Gary

Gary’s XR bitters is NOT the same bottle as my unlisted Morning Call Bitters. I will be developing a post here on the Morning Calls. Gary also picked up a nice looking Home Bitters from St. Louis for $45. Also chasing info on a Home Bitters cylinder.

Got a phone message about a Brooklyn Bitters showing up at a recent bottle show. Haven’t tracked that one down yet. Not even familiar with the bottle. Still need to make a connection for information on a the Winfrees Bitters, W 135, 136 and 137. An example is pictured under 15 August of this month.

Hi Ferd, I just got a email from a guy yesterday about a Lange & Bernecker Eagle Bitters, It appears he stole the pictures from your website where you have them listed as the Meyer Collection. I looked at the pictures of the bottle and I knew it did not look right. I forwarded you a copy of it so you could see. Thanks, Theo (Adams)

They have taken my bottle pictures and dropped it in the friggin’ chicken coupe!

Read: The XR Celebrated Eagle Bitters – St. Louis

Also getting info in on a Milburn’s Kola Bitters from Winchester, Virginia from Tom Leveille.

Wednesday, 21 August 2013

Sad day yesterday finding out about Carl Sturm passing. Carl was a fixture at bottle shows and was a long time Fed board member. RIP Carl. That is Carl at the 206 Balto Bottle Show above.

Joe Gourd, the bitters trade card king, sent in two pieces that were added to the The Home Bitters post. Need to stay more connected to Joe.

Texas meds, drugstore, bitters, and mineral waters on my mind of late. Tons of incoming material to review. How about that Texas Hutch display by David Cole?

Tuesday, 20 August 2013

The best I have ever seen! – Jeff Noordsy

Look at this stunning group of USA HOSP DEPT bottles that Jeff and Holly Noordsy posted. Shut the door!

See more: Pictures at an Exhibition – Noordsy Gallery

Sunday, 18 August 2013

Michael and Alice Seeliger from Brooklyn, Wisconsin spent the night at Peach Ridge last night. Spent a good part of the day assisting Mike take exacting color measurements of my 6-log Drakes run and various other bottles. Need to evaluate all this information now. That is Mike on the right reading a color graph from a greenish Drakes in front of me on the left. We set up in a dark, back hallway to the laundry room as to not have any other natural light influence.

After the Houston Bottle Show. Saturday night at the house, left to right, Brad Seigler, Michael Seeliger and myself

Friday, 16 August 2013

The Houston Bottle Show starts this afternoon with the action tomorrow. This show is starting to grow again and get some attention. I am specifically looking for elusive Texas bitters examples and material and Texas colored drugstore bottles. Picked up my first bottle on ebay back in July, that being the Irion Drug Store from Tyler, Texas.

Picked up a Dr. Harter’s Cherry Bitters from St. Louis on ebay yesterday. I have many Dr. Harter examples but not this baby. Looks a bit raw but apparently there are no problems.

My Texas bottle buddy, Brad Seigler tipped me off on an advertisement for Dansby’s Cotton Patch Bitters from Terrell, Texas that was placed in a Clarksville, Texas newspaper in 1887. This is the first material I could get my digital hands on for this XR bitters. Never even seen a picture of the bottle. Read: Texas Bitters List

Thursday, 15 August 2013

Raining in Houston last night and this morning. First time in a month or so with this drought. Feels odd.

Yesterday was an odd day too with lots of incoming emails and calls on bottle and go withs. Much was put on PRG Mailbox. There was two separate communications on rare Virginia bitters bottles. One being a Burdwells Virginia Bitters from Richmond and the second on a Winfrees Bitters from Petersburg, VA. Stay tuned.

Wednesday, 14 August 2013

“half-pint, the only specimen known in this size. It turned up about three years ago and is in the collection of the author”. We are happy to share that we will be offering this flask in our Premier Auction 106 which opens…..” >> Revisit Post

The Folksy, Girl on a Bicycle Historical Flask post updated again with two new pics from Cody.

Tuesday, 13 August 2013

I like it when a post generates new material. In this case I am speaking of the The Folksy, Girl on a Bicycle Historical Flask post. Mark Vuono sends this killer pic of a pint in sapphire blue and David Whitten expands on the flask origins.

Latest on the American Life Bitters.

I keep the bottle in a safe deposit box, as soon as I get time to make it into town I will get it and try for better pics for you. I understand the scams you are talking about but rest assured I do have the bottle and this is legitimate. My mother has dementia and that alone is a full time job, plus I do have a regular job, so getting into town, which is 100 miles round trip, is not something I do anymore than I have to. It’s just to difficult on Mom and I can’t leave her alone and go that far away. I’ll try for Wednesday or Thursdayof this week to get it for the pictures. I don’t get much of a chance to get on this computer either so I’m sorry it has taken me so long to reply. Yes I have contacted others and have had offers to auction it off, one ‘kind’ gentleman offered me $20.00, I laughed and refused his offer without a second thought, guess he thought I was to stupid to know it’s value. So the scams and rip offs go both ways.

Monday, 12 August 2013

Remember BAM and this cover? Caused quite a stir. Finally picked up my XR Catawba Bitters – St. Louis square.

Saturday, 10 August 2013

Jerry Forbes and I were talking yesterday about hotel and rooming accomondations at far away bottle shows and the conversation turned to the amusing aspect of some dealers ‘shacking’ up in a $49 motel room to save money. Nothing wrong with that I guess, but these guys are dealing in some big money bottles. How bout’ them Bears!

Did I miss any Bitters books? Check out the GI-89a Lafayette Masonic flask over at Mailbox Letters.

Friday, 09 August 2013

ANTI-HAIR. For you guys. A nice little present? In case your girlfriend or wife has a beard, mustache, hairy eyes or a wart on her cheek with an outcropping of hair. Makes kissing more pleasant, I think. You can really tell a difference!

Tom Marshall posted this picture of his “Runner-Up” Utility Bottle in the Manchester Bottle Battle. Stunning example and picture.

Thursday, o8 August 2013

You may have seen my plug for the Houston Antique Bottle Show on the home page (see image on left). I used some old historical art representing early commerce in Houston. I felt like using the art below as it is 102 degrees here and we may go out and drink margaritas Friday night before the show. Whiskey too! Might be in poor taste huh?

Wednesday, 07 August 2013

Please remember to keep an eye out on Mailbox Letters each month. Sometimes some interesting incoming material. I receive quite a few letters | emails regarding ancestry which is often interesting and fruitful.

Just heard that we’ve lost another member of the bottle community. Mark Legare passed away 3 days after he attended and set up at the FOHBC National show in Manchester NH. Here’s a link to his obituary where you can sign the guest book for the family. I was able to chat with Mark at Manchester and at Keene last year. He wanted so bad to have and article in Bottles and Extras but his pictures were so blurry and low res. We finally put an article in with his cat picture a few issues back.

Mark Legare at 2013 Manchester National

http://www.neunfuneralhomes.com/memsol.cgi?user_id=1054547

Tuesday, 06 August 2013

Downieville California in the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains on the Forks of the Yuba and Downie Rivers. As I sit here in my studio in downtown Houston, preparing to walk the dogs on the rush-hour congested morning streets, I look at the above picture of Downieville and I sigh with relief. I hope I can find a way to go to this bottle show next month. One of my absolute favorites. More Info

Monday, 05 August 2013

Hi there Ferdinand

Back from our ‘tour of the US’ ……. flew San Fran to New York, New York to London – home Friday morning.

BIG thank you all round, & congrats on the Manchester Expo – always impressed with what/how you do things over there (interesting contrast to UK in many ways).

The award! Well, as I said “my mum would have been sooooooo proud!” Still highly ‘chuffed’ to have received such, alongside so many distinguished collectors, most I have met. It will take pride of place in the office.

Is there any chance of a higher res image of the attached jpeg – Englands Antiques Trade Gazette want to use it for this weeks edition?

Secretary Clare and magazine editor Guy Burch kept much of what was going on a closely guarded secret – unsure whether to congratulate them, or murder them!

Spent some time trawling thro’ your images on Peachridge site – great spread. How could I get hold of some of the photographers images from the show – possibility of a disc (will gladly refund cost of posting).

All the best for now.

Alan Blakeman
BBR

Yosemite was just greeeeeeat as ever!

Sunday, 04 August 2013

It seems that after the two big shows each year, that being the FOHBC National and the Baltimore Bottle Show, I usually get a picture from Jerry Forbes with some of his takes from the show. This year the Manchester National was no different. Jerry scored BIG. Read: Jerry Forbes Does it Again

Here is another picture of that Concentric Ring Eagle historical flask.

Saturday, 03 August 2013

Wyoming Cordial post updated with incredible new material from Mark Yates. What did you all think of that striated flask that Jerry picked up at Manchester? Reminded me of the Swirls, Whirls, Twists & Twirls display at the Reno Expo.

Friday, 02 August 2013

Just added these two babies to the Bitters Spotting (and more) at Manchester post.

Can you believe it? I still have not unpacked my boxes and bottles from Manchester. Hopefully, this weekend.

Nice to see that Jeff Wichmann has moved. Pictures above from his moving announcement. I liked his old shop and the neighborhood. Hopefully I can see the new location soon.

Thursday, 01 August 2013

I find myself in Green Bay, Wisconsin today for business. In the 50s temperature-wise this morning. Was near 100 degrees when I left Houston yesterday. Had to stop and say hello to two legends and send the pics to my grandson Nicholas. He wanted an Aaron Rodgers jersey too. There were actually “cheese heads” with RV’s in the stadium parking lot having a tailgate gathering at 8:30 am.

Posted in Advice, Daily Dose, News | Tagged Daily Dose | Leave a comment

Birmingham Bottle, Advertising & Folk Pottery Show

Posted on 31 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Birmingham Bottle, Advertising & Folk Pottery Show

27 July 2013

The Alabama Bottle Collectors’ annual show was another huge success with 100 paid Dealer tables. In addition, we had 36 Early Buyers during Friday afternoon’s setup period. At the FREE pizza buffet for Dealer and Early Buyers Friday evening, over 125 people were served. General admission on Saturday topped 500 as estimated by several dealers. Local collector and general antiques dealer Reggie Swiney said “I had a great show…the public was there to buy.” Reggie also suggested that we charge admission but our club feels strongly that we should maintain our “FREE Admission” policy.

“This was the year of firsts…the 1st year with 100 paid tables, the 1st year with zero cancellations or no-shows and the 1st year I had a volunteer handle Early Buyer registration…

When asked about the show’s highlights, Tom Lines, the (permanent) Show Chairman, said “This was the year of firsts…the 1st year with 100 paid tables, the 1st year with zero cancellations or no-shows and the 1st year I had a volunteer handle Early Buyer registration…Thank You Steve Holland!!!” Asked if the Manchester Show the previous weekend impacted the Birmingham Show, Lines remarked “We had 3 dealers that attended our show last year that didn’t return because they went to Manchester. But we had 3 other dealers that did both shows despite being over 1,200 miles apart. Plus we had 13 new dealers that set up for the first time this year. So bottom line, there was little to no effect.”

As for the merchandise offered for sale, the general consensus was there were plenty of things for everyone to buy. Mississippi bottle and antiques dealer Alan Balliet said he acquired 50 bottles and flasks for re-sale at the many antique shows he attends. And good sales were reported by a number of dealers. Tampa, Florida’s Charlie Livingston said it was his best show all year. Tom Lines lamented missing a small Sandwich smelling salts bottle in a greenish canary yellow, an exceptional color for a smelling salts! Several museum quality pieces of Alabama folk pottery were offered by Tommy Burke including 3-4 decorated Sand Mountain churns and bean pots.
North Carolina’s Tim Adams came for the first time along with traveling companion Vern Huffstetler from South Carolina with each reporting excellent sales. Not being avid pizza fans, Tim and Vern found The Bright Star, a nationally renowned Greek restaurant in downtown Bessemer for their real meal. When asked about it the next morning, Tim said “Even if I didn’t sell anything next year, I’d come back just to eat at The Bright Star”. Georgia’s Tom and Mabel Hicks are also Bright Star fans as is New Orleans’ Jim Corvin. But, hey, the pizzas were good too!

Our 2 club displays this year featured Alabama mineral waters in one lighted showcase and a selection of Marion County’s Rye Pottery in the other case. Collectors were solicited prior to the show to bring a piece or two from their collections to place in the respective displays. Even though one collector slated to bring several unique mineral water bottles fell ill several days before the show and was unable to attend, the display still boasted 3 more unique mineral waters including an iron pontiled Talladega Sulphur Springs, a Baileys Mineral Springs from Florence and a Hydrostill from Birmingham plus a great selection of other known bottles. The Rye pottery display also had some bang-up examples of Jimmie Rye’s pieces.

James Cormany, winner of this year’s free dealer table, holding the (not-so-coveted) “Ugliest Trophy Ever” that has to be displayed on his table during show hours.

An annual highlight at the show has always been a drawing just for dealers to win a free sales table, actually to be reimbursed for one table. The only catch is that they have to display what’s been dubbed as the “Ugliest Trophy Ever” on their table throughout the duration of the show. This year’s winner was local collector and dealer James Cormany, also a Rye pottery expert having authored the only work ever written on the history of the Rye family.

Looking into 2014, the show date will be Saturday, July 26th with setup on Friday, the 25th. Historically, the club holds their show the 4th Saturday of July each year. And, again, the 2014 FOHBC National Antique Bottle Show at Lexington, KY will be within a week but this time, the Birmingham Show precedes the national show. Please mark your calendars now!

Posted in Bottle Shows, Club News, News | Tagged Birmingham, James Cormany, Tom Lines | Leave a comment

How to win a Stoddard Double Eagle Historical Flask

Posted on 31 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

How to Win a Stoddard Double Eagle Historical Flask

What is was: There will also be a raffle for a quart sized, double eagle flask from Stoddard, New Hampshire to benefit the Virtual Museum. The show co-chairs (Michael George and Maureen Crawford) were given the authority to buy a flask or equivalent piece of glass with a $1,000 anonymous donation. THe FOHBC will sell six $1 raffle tickets for $5. The winner will not have to be present. The person making the $1,000 donation did not want public recognition.

Fine Print: *FOHBC officers, show chairpersons, and their spouses/partners or children are not eligible for the $5,000 promotion. Any consultants to the FOHBC are also not eligible. FOHBC officers, show chairpersons, and their spouses/partners or children are eligible for the Virtual Museum raffle.

1. Attend the Manchester National as a Dealer, Collector or Guest.

2. Buy a Raffle Ticket

3. Try to Attend the Exciting Announcement Drawing

4. Be Jonathan Melnick from Sarasota, Florida. Congratulations Jonathan!

Posted in Advice, Bottle Shows, Flasks, FOHBC News, Historical Flasks, News, Virtual Museum | Tagged Double Eagle, Jonathan Melnick, raffle, virtual museum | Leave a comment

Rare Flask Stolen at Shupp’s Grove

Posted on 29 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

GII-126 | Double Eagle with Wreath

Ferd,

This past weekend at Shupp’s Grove, I had this flask stolen (GII-126 – Double Eagle with Wreath) off my table. The bottle was bought from Norm Heckler in 2006 after I was under bidder on it (Auction 81).

It was returned by the high bidder and I was able to buy it. In the 40 years I have been in bottles, this is the first time I have had a bottle stolen from me. The common thief clearly is not that smart as first being a thief is a terrible way to live. Second they stole a bottle that is rare and only about six know to be around. This bottle is different than all of those because it has a lip chip and cooling stress marks on one side. If offered for sale or shown to anyone it will be easy to spot. So hopefully they will realize how dumb a move they have made and send it back.

I am starting to spread the word and plan on doing so until most everyone in the hobby can watch out for the bottle. The photos I am forwarding were take at the show by Rick (Meech Burchfield) from antiquebottlehunter.com. I will also send you the photo that Norm used in the auction which shows the chip. They sent it to me today. Please post this on your site and the FOHBC site.

Thanks

Jim Bender
PO BOX 162
Sprakers, NY 12166

Flask from Heckler Auction 81

Posted in Bottle Shows, Collectors & Collections, Flasks, Historical Flasks, News | Tagged GII-126, Jim Bender, Shupp's Grove, stolen, theft | Leave a comment

Gerald and his labeled Missisquoi Bottle

Posted on 29 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Gerald Dexter proudly holds his labeled Missiquoi Mineral Water bottle

When I get back after a big bottle show like the 2013 Manchester National, I have to sift through my mind and Iphone pictures as so many folks stop by my table with bottles they are excited about. Many want to share the bottle (possibly put up on Peachridge) or get more information. In this case I am honestly not so sure. I have posted some of my pictures from Gerald Dexter below which prompted an online search for Missisquoi Springs from Sheldon, Vermont. I want to be a little more educated as I have seen some of these embossed bottles in auctions.

Detail of fully labeled Missiquoi Mineral Water bottle – Gerald Dexter

There is also a bit of a coincidence here as I wrote earlier in the day on the Constitution Bitters that is in the form of a Gazebo. If you look at the label on Gerald’s bottle there is a Gazebo. Little things that fire you up.

People ask me about Peachridge all the time and thank me for the work. I tell them, even if there was no audience, I would still do this for myself. I know so little but learn a little more each day in a hobby I so dearly love.

Fully labeled Missiquoi Mineral Water bottle – Gerald Dexter

A neat old photograph of a photograph of Missisquoi Spring in Sheldon, Vermont – Gerald Dexter

A photograph of a photograph of shorter, labeled Missisquoi Spring bottles – Gerald Dexter

? What I found ?

First I wanted to find out what Missisquoi means and about Sheldon, Vermont. Wow, now we have Colonel Elisha Sheldon.

Sheldon, Vermont

“This is a good township of land, productive of wool, grain and other northern commodities. The River Missisco passes through the town, and Black Creek, a branch of that river, gives Sheldon ample water power. The village is a thriving place, both in its manufactures and trade . . . The settlement of Sheldon was commenced about the year 1790 by Colonel Elisha Sheldon, and Samuel B. Sheldon, emigrants from Salisbury, Connecticut. The settlement advanced with considerable rapidity, and the town was soon organized.”

Gazetteer of Vermont, Hayward, 1840.

Missisquoi

The Missisquoi derives its name from the Indian words Missi meaning much, and Kiscoo waterfowl, from the great number of cranes, herons and ducks, that frequented, and still frequent, this stream and its branches every season.

Mineral Springs

In Sheldon, the following are the principal mineral springs: “The Missisquoi,” 8 or 10 different springs within an area of half an acre; proprietor, C. Bainbridge SMITH, Esq., New York City. “The Sheldon;” proprietors, Sheldon Spring Co., S. S. F. CARLISLE, agent. “The Central;” proprietors, Green & Co. “The Vermont;” proprietors, SAXE & Co.

The analysis of the Missisquoi A spring, ( he only one much used) is given, so far as published already.

The ingredients are combined in the water forming: Sulphate of Potash, Carbonate of Magnesia, Chloride of Sodium, Carbonate of Lime, Sulphate of Soda, Carbonate of Ammonia, Silicate of Soda, Protoxide of Iron, Crenate of Soda, Silicic Acid, Carbonate of Soda, Crenic Acid, &c.

Of the “Central” analyzed by F. F. MAYER, a prominent chemist of New York City, the following is the statement of the properties contained as a bi-carbonate: sulphate of lime, carbonate of lime, carbonate of magnesia, carbonate of iron, carbonate of soda, carbonate of potassa; chloride of calcium, sillicic acid, allumnis and phosphoric acid, organic matter, carbonic acid, fluorine, manganese, baryta.

Of the “Vermont,” analyzed by Henry KRAFT, a distinguished chemist of New York, the properties so far as discovered, are: Chloride of sodium, chloride of calcium, carbonate of soda, carbonate of magnesia, carbonate of iron, carbonate of manganese, phosphoric acid, silicate of alumina, sulphate of lime, carbonic acid, organic matter. In the sediment of the spring are found: Silica, alumina, calcium, magnesia, manganese, peroxide of iron, protoxide of iron, chlorine, fluoric acid, sulphuric acid, hydrochloric acid. The phosphoric acid, present in the “Vermont” and also in the “Central” is claimed to be an element of special medicinal value.

Of these different springs, only the “Vermont” is new. This was discovered in 1867. The others have been known and used, more or less, for 50 years.

They are located, with the exception of the “Central” quite near the banks of the “Missisquoi river, and are included within a distance of about 3 miles. They lie mainly to the north of the village; the farthest being about 2 1/2 miles distant from it. The “Central” is in the village. In connection with the “Sheldon” there is an elegantly furnished bathing-house.

There are a number of other Mineral springs in different parts of the town, and in fact there is quite a strong impregnation of iron in very many of the springs and wells, in common family use, but none have been used medicinally, to any extent, except the above named. The water from each of these is bottled and sent to all parts of the country.

The shipments of the “Missisquoi” particularly, have been very large-amounting, in 1868, to 14,792 boxes of 24 qt. bottles each.

Of the “Vermont” during the months of August, September, October and November, 1888, there were 1650 cases of 24 quart bottles each.

The specialty claimed for the waters of these springs is as a remedy for cancer, scrofula and other diseases of the blood, and many of the cases of benefit are very remarkable.

In consequence of the celebrity which these springs have reached within the few years past, SHELDON has acquired considerable importance as a summer resort.

From History of the Town of Sheldon by Dr. H. B. WHITNEY.

Great advertising for Missisquoi Spring Water showing the Missiquoi Springs Hotel in Franklin County, Vermont

Very quickly I was led to a comprehensive article on Vermont Mineral Water bottles by Don Fritschel. This brought me up to speed pretty quickly. Read: Mineral Waters of the Green Mountain State. There was even a Missisquoi Springs Hotel.

A little more history at A Walking History of Middlebury by Glenn M. Andres

Missisquoi A Springs bottle from a past Heckler Auction.

Next I found a picture of a Missisquoi A Springs from a past Heckler auction. That’s it. This is where I have seen the big “A” on a bottle before, actually quite a few times at auctions and shows. I just never stopped and thought about it.

This was still in the top fill dirt, or ash I should say. An olive green quart MISSISQUOI MINERAL water. Man I was pumped! The ash was loaded with whole perfect large bottles, just stacked like pancakes. I couldn’t believe how many bottles were just crammed in on top of eachother without being damaged. – PrivyMaster.org

Next a Missisquoi A Springs that was dug pictured on PrivyMaster.org. Now I am reminded of a cool web site that I had forgotten about.

So now, the next time I see Gerald, I can at least carry on a decent conversation. I learn something new each day about our bottles.

Posted in Advice, Article Publications, Bottle Shows, Collectors & Collections, FOHBC News, History, Mineral Water, Questions, Water | Tagged Colonel Elisha Sheldon, Gerald Dexter, Missisco, Missisquoi, Missisquoi Spring, Samuel B. Sheldon, Sheldon, Vermont | Leave a comment

Bitters Spotting (and more) at Manchester

Posted on 29 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Bitters Spotting at Manchester

FOHBC 2013 National Antique Bottle Show | Manchester, NH

29 July 2013

Whew, been cramming for the past 3 or so days trying to get the September | October issue of Bottles and Extras ready for the editorial board and then the printer. Tight deadline. You see, photo sorting, design layout, reviews, proofing, printing, more proofs and then the postal service all take time. Especially Uncle Sam.

I noted a few days ago that I would report on bitters bottles at Manchester. Though I could only see about 75% of the tables (that is another story), here are a few of the standouts. This will be a growing post as I filter through the news.

Carle Mampe Bitters from the Wicker Collection

First on the Bitters lineup was my pre-Manchester trip to see Frank Wicker in Indiana. I was in Fort Wayne for business and met Elizabeth in Cleveland. From there we flew to Manchester on Thursday, 25 July 2013. The highlight at Frank’s was looking at all his great Carl Mampe bottles. Read: Wicker Visit – Austin Healey’s and Elephants

Citron green figural Fish Bitters at Dealer set-up and Early Buyer. – Taylor Collection

My first breathtaker at the show occurred on Saturday, 26 July. The culprit was a citron Fish Bitters that Bill Taylor (Oregon) pulled out of his hat. He said he just picked it up as a person was delivering it to him. My quick Iphone pics do not do this justice. You know most citron colors seem more yellow. This is Citron Green. Killer and with the most pronounced embossing that I have seen in some time. Congratulations Bill.

I have a bottle that I would like to sell. It is the bitters with the words “Constitution”, “PUT UP BY B. M. & EAW & Co. NEW YORK. It is clear and like the one that is on your website that has a gazebo shape. Any ideas of it’s value?

Original Constitution Bitters email text I received on 11 September 2012

Ferdinand Meyer V holding the Constitution Bitters

Yours truly was finally able to bring home the extremely rare, aqua, Constitution Bitters. Read: Constitution Bitters – The oldest Figural Bitters? This example, the third known, was found in East Texas last year. Read: “I Heard it Through the Grapevine”. This could be the oldest figural bitters.

I was contacted early on about the bottle and inadvertently pushed the finder to American Bottle Auctions. Jeff sold the bottle during the evening of the Baltimore Antique Bottle show at some ungodly hour when the auction closed. I was zipped and missed the auction. Michael George, Manchester co-chair, snagged the bottle and well, now I have it. Kind of a full circle thing. The other two examples are in the collections of Sandor Fuss in Colorado and Dick Watson in New Jersey.

Jeff Burkhardt and I are having a healthy debate on whether this is a figural. He feels it is not as it is not a queen, pig, corn, or a cabin. He said a Gazebo is not an object I believe. He may have had me until he said cabin in his figural list. If a Drakes cabin is a figural, I feel a stylized gazebo should be too. Does it really matter? Probably not.

Moxie Bitters square that was sitting in the fantastic Moxie Bottle display by Dave Waris

Next on the line-up is the Moxie Bitters that was sitting in the fantastic Moxie Bottle display by Dave Waris. Read: Moxie Bitters – So What is Moxie? So simple but oh so extremely rare. It seems like there would be more of these squares.

Walters & Co. / Baltimore. This excellent photograph was taken at the Roberge table by Scott Selenak,

As you may have read, there were two Walters & Co. / Baltimore at the show. Clark and Evelyn Roberge had their stellar example and I had brought mine. It was fun to compare as these are extremely rare. I suspect this is a bitters bottle but that has not been proven. Read: William T. Walters and his Museum Bottle

Jack Hewitt was kind enough to stop by my table, stoop down and carefully unwrap his newest addition. The cobalt blue Duffy’s Crescent Saloon figural pig is extremely rare in this color with two known examples, the other being in the collection of Ralph Van Brocklin. This piece was fun to handle and sit on my table for a moment before he returned back to the sty. This was snagged on ebay recently by his brother. Read: Figural Pig Series | Duffy Crescent Saloon Figural Pig Bottle

Calamity with a Queen: A good friend of mine told me a story of a ‘mean ole dealer’ that embarrassed and shamed her for accidentally clinking a bottle on a crowded table. Let’s face it, it happens to all us on both sides of the table. She had gone in search of an Indian Queen as a gift to a friend. She apologized profusely only to have the dealer make a scene and insist she pay for the bottle. After no damage could be found by anyone, including a prominent auctioneer, the situation only diffused when she walked away. Shameful behavior.

Hopefully, those at the show saw these two beautiful Pineapple figural bitters from the Mitchell collection. One was handled while the second one had an expanded mouth. They both were entered in the Bottle Battle. I saw these examples outside Tampa once at their home. Read: Handled Pineapples Enjoyed in Sunny Florida.

T O B E C O N T I N U E D

BITTERS GALLEY

Posted in Bitters, Bottle Shows, Collectors & Collections, Figural Bottles, FOHBC News, News | Tagged Bill Taylor, Carle Mampe, Constitution Bitters, Duffy’s Crescent Saloon, Ferdinand Meyer V, Fish Bitters, Frank Wicker, Manchester, Moxie Bitters, Walters & Co. | 1 Comment

Moxie Bitters – So What is Moxie?

Posted on 26 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Moxie Bitters – So What is Moxie?

I was pleasantly surprised to see an extremely rare, Moxie Bitters within the Moxie Bottles display by Dave Waris at the FOHBC 2013 National Antique Bottle Show in Manchester, New Hampshire this past weekend. A real treat for this bitters collector. The bottle stuck out like a sore thumb to me. So what is Moxie?

So what is Moxie?

The word moxie has become a slang term that means “courage, daring, or spirit.”

The Carlyn Ring and W.C. Ham listing in Bitters Bottles is as follows:

M 156 MOXIE BITTERS

MOXIE / BITTERS // f // f // f //
9 1/2 x 2 1/2 (6 1/2)
Square, Amber, LTC, Applied mouth, Extremely rare

What is Moxie?

Moxie is a carbonated beverage that was an early example of mass-produced soft drinks in the United States. It continues to be regionally popular today. Moxie’s flavor is unique, as it is not as sweet as most modern soft drinks and is described by some as “bitter.” Moxie is flavored with gentian root extract, an extremely bitter substance which was reputed to possess medicinal properties. Moxie is closely associated with the state of Maine and was designated the official soft drink of Maine on May 10, 2005. Its creator, Dr. Augustin Thompson, was born in Union, Maine, but Moxie was invented and first produced in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Moxie History

Moxie originated as a patent medicine called “Moxie Nerve Food,” which was created around 1876 by Dr. Augustin Thompson in Lowell, Massachusetts. Thompson claimed that it contained an extract from a rare, unnamed South American plant, which had supposedly been discovered by a friend of his, Lieutenant Moxie, who had used it as a panacea. Moxie, he claimed, was especially effective against “paralysis, softening of the brain, nervousness, and insomnia.”

After a few years, Thompson added soda water to the formula and changed the product’s name to “Beverage Moxie Nerve Food.” By 1884 he was selling Moxie both in bottles and in bulk as a soda fountain syrup. He marketed it as “a delicious blend of bitter and sweet, a drink to satisfy everyone’s taste.”

A lawsuit was filed in 1907 by the Moxie Nerve Food Company of New England against the Modox Company and others, alleging that they had copied the ingredients of Moxie and were using the name “Modox,” which closely resembled “Moxie,” and were infringing upon patents and trademarks. The suit was dismissed by the judge, who said the court could not protect the legitimate part of the plaintiff’s business in this case. In a later case in New York, the Moxie Nerve Food Company won a lawsuit against Modox, which subsequently went out of business.

President Calvin Coolidge was known to favor the drink, and Boston Red Sox slugger Ted Williams endorsed it on radio and in print. The company also marketed a beverage called “Ted’s Root Beer” in the early sixties. Author E. B. White once claimed that “Moxie contains gentian root, which is the path to the good life.” Currently, one of the ingredients of Moxie is “Gentian Root Extractives” which may contribute to the drink’s unique flavor.

Moxie Bottle at Pine Island Park in Manchester, NH (Source: box vox)

The brand suffered a significant decline in sales during the 1930s, which is thought to have been caused by the company’s decision to expand its sugar reserves at the expense of its popular advertising campaign.

The Catawissa Bottling Company in Catawissa, Pennsylvania, is one of six bottlers in the United States that produce Moxie. Catawissa has produced it since 1945. Polar Beverages also bottles Moxie in Worcester, Massachusetts. [Wikipedia]

William T. Walters and his Museum Bottle

Posted on 25 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Walters & Co. Baltimore bottle – Roberge Collection (photo by Scott Selenak at the FOHBC 2013 National Antique Bottle Show)

William T. Walters and his Museum Bottle

WALTERS & Co. BALTIMORE

25 July 2013 (R•081018) (R•081418)

I have this great, 6-sided bottle I picked up from Michael George back in 2010 at the Baltimore Bottle Show embossed with “BALTIMORE” and “WALTERS & CO.” It doesn’t have the word “BITTERS” on it but I have a feeling it might have been? The bottle is oddly shaped and reminds me of my similar Wheeler’s Berlin Bitters that is pictured below. This bottle also has the word “Baltimore” embossed on a panel. Maybe the Walters and Wheelers were both produced at the Baltimore Glass Works? All we need to do now is find a labeled example.

Anyway, an example of the Walters showed up at the FOHBC 2013 National Antique Bottle Show in Manchester, New Hampshire this past weekend on the sales table of Evelyn and Clark Roberge. I also had my example with me. It was fun to compare both bottles and to do a little research on the name. I had heard that the name “Walters” was associated with the The Walters Art Museum in Baltimore. How can that be?

My thanks goes to Evelyn for allowing me to use their bottle pictures and the illustration image of the Walters & Co. building.

William T. Walters in 1883 by French artist Léon Bonnat.

William Thompson Walters

William Thompson Walters was born on 23 May 1819 in the small mining town of Liverpool, Pennsylvania. The first of eight children, William was brought up with little education and little chance at commercial success. In search of a better life, William, at 21 years of age, moved to the economically booming center of Baltimore in 1841. He was educated as a civil engineer, worked as a grain merchant and in 1847 established himself in Baltimore as a liquor wholesaler. He eventually became interested in the coal and iron industry, and while in charge of a smelting establishment in Pennsylvania produced the first iron manufactured from mineral coal in the United States. His primary wealth came through investments in East Coast railroads. At age 26, he married Ellen Harper; together the couple had three children: William, Jr., who died in early childhood; Henry, born in 1848; and Jennie, born in 1853.

He was educated as a civil engineer, worked as a grain merchant and in 1847 established himself in Baltimore as a liquor wholesaler.

Stereoview card depicting the Baltimore County country home of William T. Walters and family

he and his wife started acquiring European works of art

Following the lead of other prosperous Baltimoreans, William moved his wife and children from the crowded downtown area to the fashionable, park-like setting of 65 Mount Vernon Place (now 5 West Mount Vernon Place). At the dawn of the Civil War, William, who had mixed loyalties, thought it best to take his family away from the United States. They arrived in Paris in the summer of 1861. During this time, he and his wife started acquiring European works of art. From artists, dealers and exhibitions throughout France, Switzerland, Italy and England, William and Ellen began building the collection that would become the Walters Art Gallery.

William and Henry Walters, the Reticent Collectors – By William R. Johnston

Sadly, tragedy struck the Walters family shortly after they arrived in Europe. While on a trip to London in November 1862, Ellen contracted pneumonia and died quickly, at the age of 40. William, perhaps to console himself, turned to collecting with even more vigor. At the end of the war, in 1865, he returned to Baltimore with his children. In the spring of 1874, in his first attempt to bring art to the public, William opened his house to visitors every Wednesday in April and May, charging a 50-cent admission fee, which he donated to the Baltimore Association for the Improvement in the Condition of the Poor. These openings became an annual event in 1878 and were eagerly anticipated by Baltimore’s residents.

Exterior and interior Walters Art Museum (formerly Walters Art Gallery) – Baltimore, Maryland

Henry Walters

When William died in 1894, he bequeathed his collection to his son. Henry Walters would not only follow in his father’s footsteps in business – investing and managing railroads – but would carry on the family interest in art as well. He greatly expanded the scope of acquisitions, including his astounding purchase of the contents of a palace in Rome that contained over 1,700 pieces. This acquisition added Roman and Etruscan antiquities, early Italian paintings, and Renaissance and Baroque works of art to his holdings. Although he spent little time in his native city, Henry continued the work his father had begun by opening his collection to the public. In 1900, he bought three houses on Charles Street adjoining a property he already owned. Henry had the site transformed into a palazzo-like building, which opened to the public in 1909. He died in 1931, bequeathing the building and its contents to the mayor and city council of Baltimore “for the benefit of the public. The Walters Art Gallery, now the Walters Art Museum, opened its doors for the first time as a public institution on November 3, 1934.

Reference and Read: The History of the Walters Art Museum

William T. Walters & Edwin Walters

Edwin Walters was born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in 1834 and was the son of Henry Walters. He received his education at schools in Harrisburg and came to Baltimore in 1848, where his brother William T. Walters had preceded him in the liquor business under the name Walters & Harvey.

In Baltimore, Edwin first was employed at the sugar-importing firm of Samuel Hurlburt on Bowly’s Wharf. In 1857 or so, Edwin Walters became a partner with his brother and the firm was now called W.T. Walters & Company (William T. Walters, Edwin Walters, Joshua P. McCay).

W. T. Walters & Co. Importers & Dealers in Liquors advertisement – Baltimore City Directory 1855/1856.

When the Civil War broke out, Edwin Walters went abroad due to his firm having been fiscal agents for the State of South Carolina. All three principals were under threat of arrest.

During the early part of 1864, Edwin Walters withdrew from the firm and purchased the Orient Distillery in Canton which is a neighborhood along Baltimore’s outer harbor in the southeastern section of the city, roughly two miles east of Baltimore’s downtown district. Canton being next to or near the neighborhoods of Patterson Park, Fells Point, Highlandtown, and Greektown.

Edwin Walters then purchased his brothers shares of W.T. Walters & Co. and continued business as Edwin Walters & Company. Mr. Walters died on 19 April 1897 in his apartment at Hotel Rennert.

The firm of Broderick & McRae, wholesale liquor dealers purchased the stock, good will, trade-marks and another appurtenances of Edwin Walters & Co. upon Mr. Walters death. They both had been previous employees of Walters & Co.

Lithograph stone used to produce labels for one of the E. Walters & Co. whiskey brands, Old Virginia Glades – Submitted by Chris Rowell

The Bottle

Walters & Co. Baltimore – Roberge Collection

The bottle specifications are as follows:

L…WALTERS & Co // sp // BALTIMORE // sp //
9 1/2 x 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 (6 1/2) 3 1/2
Two Short Panels and Two Large Panels
DLTC, Applied mouth, pontil mark, Extremely rare,
Olive green
Lettering reads reversed and shoulder to base

Meyer Example

Walters & Co. Baltimore bottle – Meyer Collection

Note Mike George received: Mike, I am not sure if the bottle was dug. I found this bottle in a little out of the way shop, about 1/2 mile off the main road in Franklin County, Virginia, known as the Moon Shine Capitol of the World. I went to see the lady about buying some old country store items she had told me about. When I got there she had not had time to get the items out of storage due to her mother getting sick that week. She did have an assortment of bottles set out and I went thru them and pick out what I thought were some interesting bottles.

I would have sold the Baltimore bottle for about $25 dollars the next day if someone had of asked me. It turned out to be my dumb luck on me buying the bottles, because if she had the items I went there to buy, I would not have looked at the bottles. Of the hundred or so bottles that were out, most of them were plain soda or unmarked bottles.

I also got about 1/2 dozen emails after the bottle was sold telling me that I had just sold a $10,000 dollar bottle. That may be so but that’s the way this business works, I was happy with what I got and I am sure that you are happy. The lady that sold me the bottle was the unlucky one. However I plan to go back and see her again. I intend to spend a good portion of the funds with her, so she will get some of it back. Thanks, Cecil

Embossed Walters & Co. Baltimore, 3-piece mold cylinder in a beautiful yellow amber – Thomas Johnson

Posted in Art & Architecture, Bitters, Bottle Shows, Collectors & Collections, History, Liquor Merchant, Museums, Spirits, Whiskey | Tagged Baltimore, Broderick & McRae, Canton, Clark, Edwin Walters, Evelyn, Henry Walters, Michael George, Orient Distillery, Roberge, Thomas Johnson, Walters, Walters & Co., Walters Art Gallery, Walters Art Museum, Wheeler's, William T. Walters, William Thompson Walters | Leave a comment

Spotted on the floor at the Manchester National

Posted on 24 July 2013 by Ferdinand Meyer V

Spotted on the floor at the Manchester National

I was walking my dogs from my studio today which is a block from Minute Maid Stadium where the Houston Astros play. They were having an afternoon game and trying hard to maintain their pace for another 100+ loss season. When I walked along the outfield concourse windows of the retractable roof stadium, as it is 100 degrees, I could hear them in a commercial break doing the “faces in the crowd” thing that is so fun to watch. You know, you always hope to see yourself or your kids on the big screen. Well, that was the idea behind this post. Standout glass and people at the FOHBC 2013 National Antique Bottle Show in Manchester, New Hampshire this past weekend.

I could hear them in a commercial break doing the “faces in the crowd” thing that is so fun to watch

All of these shots are vertical. The people have been converted to black and white images to create some harmony with all of the beautiful glass. These outstanding pictures were taken by Scott Selenak, FOHBC photographer.

F A C E S

David Landry, Andrew Vuono, Janine Burkhardt, Vince Martonis, Bob Currens, Val Berry, James Campiglia, Chuck Wingate, Maureen Crawford, Dennis Huey, Eric Correia, Bill Ham, A Eagle shirt (unknown), Ian Simmonds, John Pastor, Jon Vander Schouw, Nicholas Wrobleski, Jack Stecher