Charlie and I first met Lew Scranton about six years ago when we participated in the Guilford Antiques Show for two consecutive years. Lew’s booth was always filled with interesting objects. He was sincere – someone I felt I could trust. When I heard that Lew was planning to sell his personal collection via Skinner, Inc. at an ‘old fashioned’ on site auction with no phone bidding and no buyer’s premium, I felt I needed to be at this event. So we booked a peaceful room at an AirBnB in Madison, CT and traveled to Killingworth, CT to see Lew’s New England home during the preview. Lew lovingly restored his home to a beautiful Americana showplace, just right for displaying his treasures.
The preview was bustling with anticipation. It was a thrill to see the objects in their natural surroundings. Many dealers and collectors were there. The atmosphere was festive and the weather perfect. A large tent for the auction filled the side yard. I was careful to reserve a seat for the following day.
The next morning dawned golden and filled with bird song. We arrived early to have a last go round to see the items to be sold, now placed under the tent. Below is a sample:
The lovely surface of this child's settle hoisted the winning bid to $18,000.
One of my favorites, this stunning redware plate sold for $8,000.
Stephen Fletcher, Department Director and auctioneer, quipped his way through the opening lots and kept the atmosphere light and festive.
Lew Scranton has not retired. He will continue to buy and sell. Nicknamed, the Lanky Yankee, you will still see him at his favorite shows.
For more images and selected prices, see our Noonmark Antiques face book page.