We are pleased to be offering two extensive collections in this auction, along with some select additions. First up is the estate of , which consists of a lifetime of collecting all things railroad – from early CP and Grand Trunk travel posters, to a wide variety of lanterns and lamps, to train uniforms and caps. Many of the lanterns are made by Hiram L. Piper Kero, easily the most recognizable of Canadian railway lantern manufacturers. Originally started by Hiram Piper as a railway supply company in Toronto in the 1860’s, the company was eventually moved to Montreal in the early 1900’s by one of the sons. In the 20’s Piper teamed up with the American company Adams & Westlake Co. (Adlake) to bring the Adlake Kero to Canada.
Due to tariff challenges (!), the only way Adlake could compete in the Canadian market was to send their lantern in parts to the Piper factory in Montreal where they were assembled. Along with short globe lanterns and semaphores, there is a selection of rare oil lamps, stamped CNR, CPR and Grand Trunk. Another highlight are the early photos of Canadian railway destinations, such as the Royal Muskoka Hotel, and the Banff Springs Hotel. These travel adverts are in their original oak frames, stamped with the name of the railway companies. Along with authentic uniforms and hats from CPR and CNR, we have a collection of silver plate from the early days of the railway, where fine dining was very much a part of the experience of taking the train – along with a 1920’s dinner chime to call passengers to the dining car! Our selection of clocks is from another passionate collector, who amassed over 1000 clocks in his lifetime! A particular love of his was clearly the anniversary or 400 day clock, made in Germany by clockmakers such as Kundo, Koma and Heco. Also known as torsion pendulum clocks, they are mechanical clocks with a decorative pendulum, usually 3 or 4 chrome balls on ornate spokes. The torsion pendulum oscillates slowly, clockwise, then counter clockwise, unlike the more usual swinging of an ordinary pendulum.These are delicate clocks, which require stable conditions to operate properly – one of the reasons they are protected from even air currents, which could throw them off, by glass domes. They are known as anniversary clocks, because depending on conditions, many will run for an entire year on one winding! With many beautiful variations, you are sure to find something unusual to add to your collection. Along with anniversary clocks, we have a spectacular 9 bell Elliot grandfather clock, as well as vintage wall and mantle clocks.
To round out our auction, as always, we have some unusual and unexpected additions, such as vintage fishing lures and rods, decorative items, antique items from a local museum, as well as early Masonic and Oddfellows framed paper certificates and prints, in lovely, ornate antique frames- and while you’re at it, take a minute to wonder what the story was behind the fascinating and unusual charcoal portrait of a young Canadian soldier who fought in the American civil war.
Be sure to browse through the auction to the end, so you don’t miss out! Call John if you would like to arrange a preview, at 416 453 0020
