Willistead Manor Sale – antique auction anyone?

By Kerry Mayhead

Windsorites turned out for a chance to buy unique one-of-a-kind pieces at Willistead Coach House’s antique auction sale held earlier this month.

The Manor auctioned many collectible and antique pieces during the event from March 3 to 5.  The pieces were donations from the Willistead area and other people who wanted to help.

Chris Paterson owner of When I Was Young antique store on Wyandotte Street East, said the Willistead auction may have been the best kept secret in Windsor.

“More competition means the prices go higher. They have great pieces when they have sales. The less people that come the more I can get,” said Paterson.

According to Paterson, there were a lot of “little treasures” to be found, including the 1901 pump organ he bought.

Paterson attended the last auction three years ago and said, “People were lined up around the corner,” to get a chance to find little treasures of their own.

Chair of Acquisitions Robert Gauthier said the auction format was changed this year to reduce the line ups and waiting times for customers.

“Everyone had a chance to get in and bid,” said Gauthier.

This year’s sale was a great success according to Gauthier and by the third day, almost all of the items were purchased. The silent auction and fundraiser helped raise money for the manor’s restoration fund.

“It is a worthy cause and everyone feels good,” said Gauthier.