Antiques Bring History to Life at Virginia Highlands Festival in Abingdon

Abingdon, Va.—Tim and Debbie Crawford are on a mission to breathe new life into items from the past. At this year’s Virginia Highlands Festival, the couple proudly displays their collection of primitive antiques, dating back as far as the 1700s, hoping to ignite a passion for history in a new generation.

“The antique business has its ups and downs, but I’m seeing more young people liking antiques,” said Tim Crawford on Friday, the opening day of the Festival’s Antiques & Vintage Show. The show, which runs through August 4 in the Grand Hall at Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, is home to a plethora of historical gems just waiting to be discovered.

One standout piece in their collection is a sugar chest. Tim points out the historical significance of such items, stating, “Because sugar was a high commodity in the 1800s, people would lock it up for safety with their liquor.” He eagerly shares the unique stories behind each piece. “The sugar was made into cones and was kept in the bottom. A friend found it in an old barn in Wythe County. It was a great find.”

A Closer Look at the Timeless Treasures

Among their collection is also a chest from Burke’s Garden, held together with dovetail hinges and dating back to the 1850s, as well as a pewter cabinet complete with spoon racks from the 1840s. Tim emphasizes the importance of understanding the origins of each piece, noting that eighty percent of their antiques come from a 150-mile radius around their home.

The couple’s love for antiques didn’t just start with their business. Tim has been collecting since his teenage years, inspired by his parents and his childhood in Saltville, filled with hunts for Civil War bullets. Together, Tim and Debbie continued to fuel their passion for history by investing in antiques rather than traditional savings. “Instead of putting money in the bank, we’d just buy an antique,” laughed Tim.

Millennials’ Growing Interest

Each year, the Crawfords bring their experience and enthusiasm to the Antiques & Vintage Show. “Even if we don’t sell a lot, we still enjoy being here. Talking to other collectors is a big part of it. I’ve met some great people from all over the country and the world,” Tim shared. Despite the antique market facing challenges, particularly with inflation in the 1990s and early 2000s, both Tim and Debbie are optimistic about the growing interest among millennials. “I think they like the idea of owning something that’s been around for a long time. It’s a connection to the past.”

Kathy Johnson, the show manager, is also pleased with this year’s turnout, noting an increase in the number of vendors. “We have 34 vendors, more than would fit in the Grand Hall at the higher education center. Some vendors are set up in the lobby area,” she said.

Highlights from the Show

Vendors from across the country have convened in Abingdon, showcasing items ranging from linens and glassware to artwork and vintage toys. One booth from Burnsville, N.C., stands out with its display of vintage cap pistols and cowboy memorabilia. Another from Paris, Kentucky, specializing in 18th and 19th-century furniture, has also caught the attention of attendees.

This year’s show offers not only a chance to purchase unique items but also to learn more about them. On the final day, patrons can have their antiques identified and appraised by John Case from Case Auctions in Knoxville, adding another layer of engagement to the event.

Overall, the Antiques & Vintage Show at the Virginia Highlands Festival offers a vibrant blend of history, craftsmanship, and community. Whether you’re an experienced collector or a newcomer to the world of antiques, there is something here to capture your imagination and connect you with the past. The show runs daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. until August 4, with an admission fee of $7. Children 12 and under can enter for free.

For more details, be sure to visit the Virginia Highlands Festival’s official website.