On October 15-16, 2011, the 8th National Shaving Collectibles Meeting was held in West Chester, Ohio. Forty collectors and spouses attended, with 35 tables chock full of shaving collectibles for sale and for display. It truly was a site to behold. More razors, stroppers, blades, blade banks, etc were displayed in one location than you could ever hope to see in a lifetime of scouring antique stores, flea markets, garage sales, and rummage sales.
Meeting participants met on Friday, October 14, at the popular Bravo Cucina Italiana restaurant. The formal meeting was held on the following day at the Indiana Wesleyan University Conference Center in West Chester. On Sunday morning, the meeting concluded with brunch at the Rosenthals.
Lynn Abrams, scheduled to speak on straight razors, was unable to attend because of a family emergency. We wish Lynn and his loved ones well and hope that he will be able to join us next year.
Fortunately, Jeff Gordon from Bowling Green, Ohio, was attending his first meeting and stepped up to introduce the two-volume book he is currently writing on the history of straight razors. Jeff's book is not only a history book but will include sections on composition of razor handles and blades and determining a razor's value. We can hardly wait for further announcements on the publication of this book. After a brief introduction, Jeff entertained questions, and a stimulating discussion ensued.
In the afternoon, on short notice, Jack Hayes was gracious enough to speak about his safety razor collection. Even though he has some of the more common razors, he also has a great many of the rarest and most unusual razors ever manufactured. The color slides had us all mesmerized and envious of the rare razors in his collection.
Andy Pennella from Schick Wilkinson Sword again generously donated door prizes and goodie bags for all participants. The company has supported our efforts since the first meeting and we are very grateful. In addition, many of those present also donated shaving items for door prizes. Drawings were conducted and about 30 prizes were given out. Thank you to all who contributed.
It was great to see all the new faces, as well as the familiar faces, and the treasure trove of shaving collectibles on display at this year's meeting. We even had a wonderful old barber's chair on site, thanks to Bob Linzy. The room was a flurry with all of the buying, selling, and trading. It was easy to see that a great time was had by all.
Be sure to mark your calendars for the next meeting, which will be held on October 13-14, 2012, in West Chester, Ohio, USA.
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