By Terry and Kim Kovel Some designers become so popular that their name becomes synonymous with their style. This can make matters confusing for collectors. Duncan Phyfe furniture is one of the most famous examples. Cabinetmaker Duncan Phyfe (1768-1854) came to America in 1784, served in an ...

Any time of year is a great time to stop into the library, but summer can be an especially happening time as kids are out of school and people want to get out of the house and enjoy a variety of activities. Of course, we’re happy to help with your cabin fever in winter too! In any case, we ...

Sometimes, all we know about an artist from the past comes from their artwork. This is especially true of folk and outsider artists; collectors are often lucky to know their names. Fortunately, artist Louis E. Thompson signed and dated his works, like the mixed media wall sculpture shown here, ...

Take a moment and picture a pocket watch. Are you thinking of a hunting case watch with elaborate relief decorations and an engraved monogram? A minimalist open-faced watch with a 14K gold case? Maybe a chain and a fancy fob? One thing is safe to assume: The watch probably tells time with hands ...

What is better than finding a great new book? Discovering a great new series! The list below names the first book in a series, as well as the title of the newest addition to the series. The new additions have recently hit library shelves or will be at the library soon. Place the newest book on ...

For many people, a cold beer on a warm evening is a favorite summer indulgence. But if you look back far enough in history, beer wasn’t an indulgence; it was part of a healthy diet. There are written records of beer brewing (and drinking) from as early as 5,000 years ago. Before reliable ...