Shortly thereafter I began studying the history of western expansion and the Great movement west. Most of all, we are inspired by the “thrill of the chase!” Other reasons why we collect: nostalgia and a connection to history, social interaction with other collectors, appreciation of beautiful objects, knowledge and learning, relaxation–and it’s FUN. I have been a cane collector ever since.Īt some point we collectors experience an epiphany, an “ah ha” moment where we realize we are motivated by a deeper calling, an internal drive to collect a particular object or objects “I collect, therefore I am.” Motherhood and a full-time work schedule shelved my collecting impulses until 1998, when I was given a book, “Canes Through The Ages” written by Francis Monek, and discovered the world of canes. I began collecting bisque and china head dolls before the birth of our first son out from storage came Tiny Tears and Ginny. Over the years I have collected demitasse cups, Victorian Majolica (I love the jewel colors of the translucent lead glazes and the organic shapes of the pottery) and other shorter lived interests.

During that time I learned the joy of arrowhead hunting walking cornfields in Southern Illinois. As a college student in the early 1970’s, I began collecting old bottles and railroad date nails, inexpensive treasures easily found at flea markets or walking along abandoned railroad tracks, a perfect pastime for one with limited means.

Where to buy walking canes