Worcester County Wonders: Treasure hunting at Blue Collar Vintage Salvage
LEICESTER - Nine years ago, Anthony Brooks purchased a 3-acre plot on the Auburn-Leicester line and Blue Collar Vintage Salvage was born. Today it's a place for treasure hunters of all ages to search for hidden gems in the organized chaos.
"When I was 9 years old, I was digging in the woods and came across an old Oilzum can," Brooks said. "I just loved the image, being a kid, I thought it looked like a bank robber, that's really when this whole thing started."
Oilzum was one of the first brand names in the motor oil industry, dating back to the turn of the 20th century in Worcester. The iconic can depicts a chauffeur but it's easy to see how a youngster could think of a criminal. Thus, Brooks' passion for collecting what he lovingly calls "orphans" blossomed. Stepping into his office, it's easy to see his love for Oilzum has only grown into a passion for all things vintage.
Now Brooks shares not only the collection but also the passion behind each and every item housed at Blue Collar.
"Part of the experience here is really the thrill of the chase," Brooks said. "Customers come to the shop, grab a flashlight, and trust me, there's something for everyone hidden here."
He's right of course. Walking through the small pathways, in between stacks and shelves of miscellaneous treasures, the lyrics from "The Little Mermaid" come to mind: "How many wonders can one cavern hold? Looking around here you'd think, sure, she's got everything."
Mummified animals, furniture, historical advertisements, trinkets galore and vintage clothing, including an old T-shirt from Spag's, are just some of the items visible in one of the rooms. Turn the corner and you're met with another onslaught of items piled high.
"I'm literally living the dream every single day and I'd be nowhere without the support of my wife," Brooks said with a smile, adding he's only brought home five or six items over the years and keeps the majority of his collection at the shop on Auburn Street.
The chaos of that collection is what makes Blue Collar so unique.
"We have a customer named Ed, he's 83 and has been coming here every single Saturday for nine years," Brooks said. Ed isn't the only repeat customer, Brooks explains his regulars come in and still, no matter how many years go by, they always find something new.
"Maybe last time they were only looking up and to the right, but this time they're looking to the left and lower. There are these kids that come in, their parents sit in the car and the kids search the shop, they even know how to bargain for prices," Brooks said. "To see these young kids, there is hope for the craft."
Over the years, Brooks has worked with the community to find descendants of specific items, specifically those considered to be heirlooms. The shop is currently looking for any information about George Arthur Chabot or his descendants, after a WWII U.S. Navy dog tag was unearthed in an attic in Worcester.
The unique vibe of Blue Collar doesn't fade when you leave the confines of the building. Stepping across a bridge of a small stream, the backyard has been groomed into a makeshift amphitheater, showcasing free concerts all summer long.
The so-called "Motor Rythm No. 9 Stage" already has a full schedule for the summer:
June 2 - We and the Dawg
June 23 - Whiskey Boulevard
July 7 - Young Blood Revival w/County Live String Band
July 21 - Platinum Thrill
Aug. 4 - Triple Tribe
Aug. 18 - Good 'n' Rich
Sept. 8 - Swap Roots w/Ali Mctavish & Jay Apt
Brooks is always collecting new items and has advice for those looking to unload so-called "junk."
"I cannot stress enough, if you inherit a home or maybe have a house full of stuff, don't throw anything away until you've had someone like me or another company come in and take a look," Brooks said. "What people don't realize is a lot of items not only have monetary worth but intrinsic value."
Thanks to Danielle for her suggestion of Blue Collar Vintage Salvage for this edition of Worcester County Wonders.
T&G engagement editor Sarah Barnacle is getting to know Central Mass. by exploring some of the best places to go and things to do in Worcester County. If you have an idea or suggestion, please email sbarnacle@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Treasure hunting at Blue Collar Vintage Salvage
