This week we stopped in at the Apple Barrel Antiques in Bremen, Georgia to take a look around. This is one of those places that consists of lots of booths inside a storefront. Each booth belongs to a different vendor. We found lots of things we liked in there. It was really hard to make a decision, but I wound up buying two small tables.
The first thing I found was this small table. It is the perfect size to place between two chairs for holding a lamp. It has three drawers in it too, which would be great for storing the remote control, a pen and paper, and coasters for a drink. It has a couple of very small scratches on the top, but is in otherwise great condition. Can you believe it was only $36?
As I was going to the front of the store to get someone to assist me with the round table, I saw this telephone table. I have seen only one of these in my life before this, and I was really surprised to see it in such great shape. Back in the early days of telephones, people had these tables in the hallway or entryway of their homes, where they had their telephone installed. The old black telephone sat on the table, and the shelf below was for the telephone book. You could sit on the bench while you talked. It think the name gossip bench came about because back then, even as late as the 1960’s, there were “party lines”. Your telephone service was on a shared line with four to six other households. Each house has a separate ring pattern, so that you could tell when the phone call was for you. If you were very quite, you could listen in to other people’s conversations after they answered the phone. And, you had to wait for them to get off the phone before you could make a call.
This is the only chair I have at the house right now, and it is very comfortable. Again, I was surprised to find it priced at $39.95, with a 10% discount at checkout.
The last thing I got at this shop was a carved cedar bear. The bear symbol is used a lot in the Native American culture. I used to have an Acoma pottery piece of a bear, but sold it a long time ago. This is what I found about bear symbolism:
Because the bear is cautious, it encourages discernment to humankind.
Because of a fierce spirit, the bear signals bravery to those who require it.
Because of its mass and physical power, the bear stands for confidence and victory.
Because it prefers peace and tranquility (in spite of its size), Bear calls for harmony and balance.
This little bear measures 3.5″ X 2.5″ and was priced at $3.00
I found a set of copper molds that hang on the kitchen wall, but did get them. I may go back in a couple of weeks to see if they are still there.
Great finds! I love the gossip bench, it would be fun to find an old phone to put on it. We used to have a party line with three other families, my how things have changed!
Those are both beautiful tables! How neat that he wood on each seems to go so well together! Just love your little bear and the meaning behind him. Sounds like you are starting to settle in!
I love the table and bench!
I just love the gossip bench- how much are you asking for it? I don’t know how the e-bay thing works, but I do have a paypal account and other resources. Please contact me by phone at 303-942-0868.