Dear Alan and fellow Carder lovers,

Thank you so very much for the lovely tribute you paid to Frank, and the gracious and caring thoughts our fellow members have expressed. When we joined the Carder Steuben group some 10 years ago, Frank immediately felt he had “found a home,” with folks who, first of all, loved Steuben glass and, second, admired/appreciated/revered Frederick Carder–and best of all, were more knowledgeable than we, whom we could learn from!

How we looked forward to our September trips to Corning, to celebrate Mr. Carder’s birthday, to see wonderful treasures many of you brought, or showed photos of, and to make new friendships that are lasting! Thank you for welcoming us so warmly. I am hoping to continue the tradition when we can gather once more and toast Mr. Carder in person! Meanwhile, let’s enjoy our virtual symposium in September.

All the best to you,

Elizabeth Creech

Say It Isn’t So

As many of you already know, my Carder Steuben collection has been posted on Liveauctioneers, and other sources, for auction ( akibaantiques.com) on Thursday, July 29. Too many this comes as a shock, and I’ve had many questions. Let me, at least, answer a few of them.

I’ve always understood that I’m a caretaker of these pieces special to me for only a limited time. Now the baton moves on to other collectors who hopefully will enjoy and take pleasure with these pieces, near and dear to me.

Why now? First, like so many my children aren’t interested in my collection. Second, I’m downsizing and I don’t have the space for this 300+ piece collection. In fact, very few at most. Finally, my children may not know how to dispose of them for the best advantage.

The next question I’ve been asked is won’t you lose money in the current market place? In particular possibly flooding the market, which may reinforce the losing proposition. Well, I’ve had 20 years of sheer enjoyment. It’s not about the money. I’ve gotten my money’s worth already. So, however, this works out, so be it. If someone gets a bargain and enjoyment to go with it, I will be happy for them and I hope they will live with the piece as I have, as a good custodian. Then pass the love on to the next collector.