When your hobby becomes your job, it is easy to forget how much you previously enjoyed the pursuit. I think everyone at Manion's International Auction House, at least those of us who collect militaria, can relate. When you see more, say WWII squadron painted A2 Flight Jackets , in a week than most collectors will see in their lifetime, it loses a bit of the magic. Couple this with collecting and distributing funds from the sale of said item as a third party - and working hard to keep the lights on - and you've taken it to a totally different place than it began. But, all in all, it's not a bad problem to have . . .
Last week, however, we were treated to something special.
A longtime customer of our militaria auction decided to show his appreciation by inviting us into his home. Not just one or two of us - but everyone, 20 some people at one time. And we're not just talking footlockers and plastic tubs full of olive drab and feldgrau, and not just a suited out mannequin or two. This advanced collector, who works as a general contractor during the day, has transformed a very large section of his basement (which happens to be as large as this writer's entire house) into a reflection of a WWII British Pub.
It was quite an impressive endeavor. Even more impressive was his expression of sincere appreciation regarding our daily efforts running the world's largest militaria related auction house. We were treated to a barbecue feast, and the Boulevard Beer was flowing freely. It was a nice little outing, and as much as he appreciated our endeavors . . . we appreciated seeing what he had done.
