Antique Quest Chronicles: Historical Finds at Lewes' Emporium Antiques Center

In this episode of Antique Quest Chronicles, we venture to Lewes, a historic town known for its antique centers. Join me as I uncover remarkable finds at Emporium Antiques Center, including a fascinating boxwood folding rule with a storied past.

Prepare to be captivated by the treasures of Lewes! From unique tools with historical significance to charming relics of bygone eras, this journey promises excitement and discovery. Dive in and explore the wonders that await at Emporium Antiques Center.

At the end of the previous episode, I was still far from achieving a financial breakthrough. My visits to two of Brighton’s antique centers were exciting but yielded insufficient items to turn this expedition into a profit. Without a plan B for more treasures, fortune smiled upon me when a sales lady recommended exploring the nearby town of Lewes, renowned for its concentration of antique centers. Armed with new hope, I took an early train from Brighton to Lewes, arriving there in just 15 minutes.

A Historical Gem: Lewes

Nestled in the county of East Sussex, Lewes is a town steeped in history dating back to medieval times. Its strategic location on the River Ouse played a significant role in its prosperity, flourishing as a trade center. Lewes' wealth was significantly bolstered by the wool trade during medieval times and later by the booming brewery industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, Lewes retains its medieval charm, making it an ideal destination for antique hunters seeking relics from its glorious past.

Emporium Antiques Center: A Treasure Trove

Upon arriving in Lewes, I headed directly to the High Street, where most antique centers are situated. My first stop was Emporium Antiques Center, run by Michele Doyle since 1995. This center collaborates with 70 individual dealers across four floors, offering an excellent selection of antiques and collectibles, including gold, silver, jewelry, coins, medals, Art Deco furniture, antique tools, books, and more.

Entering the door, I was immediately impressed by the array of fine English antiques. A friendly dog lay next to the entrance, welcoming and sniffing visitors. After a warm greeting from Mrs. Doyle, we exchanged some pleasantries about the typical English weather, and I began my hunt.

A Historical Find: Boxwood Folding Rule

As I mentioned in the prologue of this series, the best chance to find treasures is to search the corners, lower or top shelves for forgotten items. In one such corner, on the very bottom shelf of a cabinet, I made a remarkable discovery: a Boxwood Folding Rule by V&R Blakemore, Birmingham, from the 1880s.

While I was examining this folding rule, a fellow visitor remarked that it was a well-made antique tool by a renowned producer. Villiers and Ramsey Blakemore were export merchants dealing in a diverse range of goods from 1867 to 1895, including guns, locks, hardware, folding rulers, and buttons.

The rule bore a later-made stamp with the initials C.W. Grist. Research revealed that this folding rule belonged to Charles William Grist, born in 1888 in the UK. Grist, a carpenter and joiner, served in the UK Air Force during WWI. Below his initials, other initials "W.B." were visible, possibly belonging to one of his ancestors. As a museum piece, I valued it at €175.

Learn more and make it yours today!

Spirit Level by I&D Smallwood

The next item that caught my attention was a spirit level made from brass and mahogany by I&D Smallwood Company, Birmingham, established in 1858. The company's repertoire included producing precision tools, and 1999 marked the closure of their last factory.

The spirit level, marked with the broad arrow—a symbol for government property—was in perfect working condition and could be worth €75.

Learn more and make it yours today!

The Acme Thunderer LMS Railway Whistle No 58

Also in the same cabinet, I found an Acme Thunderer whistle by J Hudson & Co., dating back to the 1930s. Joseph Hudson, the inventor of the Metropolitan Police Whistle and the first referee whistle for football, founded the company in 1870. This particular whistle, used by the LMS Railway Company, was in excellent condition and could fetch up to €62.

Learn more and make it yours today!

A Successful Hunt

Excited by my finds, I headed to the cash desk. Mrs. Doyle kindly offered a 10% discount, even though I paid by card. The highlight of my visit to Emporium Antiques Center was undoubtedly the folding rule. With my new acquisitions, I surpassed the financial break-even point. Yet, more antique centers awaited exploration. What a day! On to the next adventure, recommended by the lady in Brighton.

Stay tuned for the next episode of the Antique Quest Chronicles, where I will share another historically significant find. Until then, happy hunting!