A Treasure Hunt

               Haunted. -- That’s all I could think about as I crept about the nearly 150 year old mansion on Bull Street in Savannah, Georgia. Although this incredible Italianate house is in a major state of decay, it contains a treasure trove of world antiques. The keen eye of Alex Raskin has collected these jewels, making them available for purchase. Offered, is a mixture of furniture, upholstery, art, lighting and decorative accessories.

                Noble Hardee, a prominent cotton merchant, began construction of this pre-Civil War house on Monterey Square in 1860. Although he did not see its finish in 1869, it has had many a resurrection and passing of purpose since. It is truly a gem in need of polishing. The plaster is crumbling from the ceilings and walls, while some floorboards are missing. The smorgasbord of available antiques are piled high in nearly every nook and cranny of the 4 floors, necessitating a slow foot and cautioned turn.

                As a seasoned interior designer, it is my belief that nearly every room benefits from the inclusion of an antique item. Interiors from the most traditional-to-minimalistic contemporary seem to profit from an antique’s spirit.  Inevitably, the find becomes the conversation piece, and often, the focal point of the setting. My mission, today, was discovering possibilities for both current and prospective projects.

                My eyes tiptoed from piece-to-piece, considering each item’s detail of design and quality of craftsmanship. In today’s world of mass production, the skillset to create many of these finds is simply extinct. Such contributes to the value and story to be told of each.

           The stairwells are lined with artwork. Portraits dominate. As I climb the stairs, I often stop to study the expressions and character of the subject’s face. Many of them are 18^th century or earlier. One must wonder what the history of each piece must be. Upon reaching the fourth level of the home, I discover a bank of stacked foot lockers or chests. The mass collection of them is rather startling. Each seems to demand attention with its own unique finish or design.

           Instantly, thoughts began to flutter in my mind of the souls who previously owned each of them. Who were they? What did they store therein? Was it their proud possessions? Their dreams? Their hopes?  

           Many notes were taken. Many possibilities discovered. Many a treasure found.

It was a good day.

This was a Moment in America.