Personal Treasures: From Family Art to Rock ‘N’ Roll Legends

Collecting and displaying memorabilia can be a deeply personal and meaningful hobby. For me, my collection includes a diverse array of items that hold sentimental and historical value. This article delves into some of the highlights of my collection, from family art pieces to a rare piece of music history.

Family Art: A Legacy of Creativity

My grandmother was an accomplished artist, working with various mediums, including painting, clay, oils, acrylics, watercolors, quilting, and even painting on less conventional items such as palm fronds and shale. The pieces that have been passed down to me include a Swedish finger-painting from my daughter's early childhood, her very first creation, as well as several works from my grandmother. I have hung these pieces around my house to keep her memory alive.

War Service and Family Heritage

The second aspect of my collection is more tangible in terms of historical significance, yet equally personal. I have a display case filled with my grandfather's World War II service medals and other items. The case was made by my ex-wife, and among the items are preserved family heirlooms, such as a marriage certificate of my dad's grandmother, dated back to 1902. These items serve as powerful reminders of our family's history and the sacrifices made in the past.

Rock ‘N’ Roll Memorabilia: A Lifelong Passion

As a lifelong rock and roll enthusiast, my collection also includes some memorable pieces of history. Recently, my son gifted me a copy of the first edition of Rolling Stone, originally published on November 9, 1967, Vol. I, No. 1. It was not the first issue off the presses, but it was purchased when it was still on the newsstand. This issue holds significant personal and historical value to me, as I read it from the age of 16 until about 36 years later when I stopped. The magazine was sold for 25 cents in 1967, and now, a copy on the newsstand sells for around $6.

The cover features John Lennon, who became known for wearing glasses in public after wearing them in the movie 'How I Won the War.' The magazine edition also marks the style of glasses that Lennon became famous for. This piece of rock ‘n’ roll history takes me back in time and reminds me of my involvement in the music world during the 1960s and 1970s.

Conclusion

Collecting memorabilia can be a deeply personal and enriching experience. These items not only hold sentimental value but also serve as reminders of our family's past and our involvement in significant cultural movements. For me, it’s about preserving these moments and sharing them with future generations.