Have you ever wondered what thrifting or antique shopping was like in other areas further away from home?  I have then finally got the chance to see it for myself.  We were in the New England States recently and oh my golly, the pieces there were nothing like ours.  Texas became a state in 1845 and the beautiful pieces I saw were about 100 years older than that!  So, as I join the lovely ladies from Thrifting With The Gals, here’s what you find when thrifting/antiquing far from home.

Not sure where these chairs came from since they were a gift.

What You Find When Thrifting/Antiquing Far From Home

I’m excited to join Thrifting with The Gals today.  These ladies are talented and quite creative so frankly, it’s an honor to even join them.  If you aren’t familiar with the “gals” make sure and check them out.  Their styles are lovely and unique so after seeing their thrifting posts below, give them each a follow.  You’ll be glad you did.

Found in an antique store in Searsport, Maine

I am a born-n-raised proud Texan.  I love living here and I don’t get offended when someone tells me I say the weirdest things or make fun of my (mild) accent.  But y’all, I’d relinquish all ties to live somewhere further north where they have 4 seasons.  I need to visit more of them to figure out where but New Hampshire and Vermont are on the short list.  So is Montana but that’s another post.

French Basket found in New Hampshire

Anyway, have you ever wondered why your antiques and thrifted finds don’t look like the ones your blogging friend that lives on the other side of the map has in her home?  I do!  You probably already know this but I was recently told it’s because different states were admitted to the union at differing times and the settler’s came from other parts of the world.

  Antique baskets found in Maine

Really?  Who knew?  Whatever the reason, it is a wonderment.  When we were in the New England States we saw lots of snow skiing and coastal fishing type pieces.  Like snow shoes, wooden skis, old ski poles, and fantastic photos of people skiing in the funniest clothes.

Old wooden box found in New Hampshire

The coastal items were old rods and reels, old fishing boat flags and club pins and patches, lures and trophies.  It was awesome and 99 percent of it I had not seen anywhere near where I live.  Where I live in Texas it’s a lot of rusty bins, boots, hutches, silver trays, horseshoes, Mason jars, Fostoria glass, Fenton hobnail and old crocks.   

Metal Tool box found in Round Top, Texas

I figure if I get to move up north, my new neighbors are going to wonder where that rickety chair bottom used for a side table came from and will ask why I use an old galvanized baby tub as art.  Or maybe they’ll ask where I got the Baton twirler trophy used as a finial on top of the lamp or can they have my super old porch columns turned into coat racks.   

Antique Hutch from the mid 1700’s found in Maine

Either way, I feel that’s how our new friendship is going to start.  Then she’ll invite me over to compare centuries old treasures and we’ll become forever friends and shopping partners.  Ah, good times, good times.

Antique Hutch from the mid 1800’s in Navasota, Texas

The difference between antiques found in the New England States vs. Texas seems to be more casual and less detailed.  I have no clue honestly what is what unless someone tells me.  I just buy what I like and find a place for it.  The only thing I know for sure is Texas didn’t join the union until 1845 and the New England states joined in the mid 1700’s.

1700’s bench found in Maine  

I would have purchased so many things had we not flown into NY.  Even with the small things I purchased, we had to get a new suitcase to carry it all home.  Next time I will beg the mister to fly up there, rent a trailer and drive home.  That seems like the best plan.  

Old church pew in Argyle, Texas

There’s no way for me to tell if the prices were high for the area.  Because of their age, most everything was 3 digits with a lot being 4 digits.  They cost quite a bit more than what you find down here.  I’m used to 2 digits and sometimes 3 but maybe I’m just cheap.

Brass Pilgrim Bell found in Vermont

I found this small brass Pilgrim bell in Vermont and wasn’t leaving without her.  She’s perfect to keep out during autumn and Thanksgiving.  I might just use it to call people to the table to eat.  So cute!

Brass horse found in Fort Worth, Texas

Horses, cows, herding dogs and deer are what you find a lot of in Texas.  Along with football trophies and banners.  We do love our football around here.

Well that is what you find when thrifting/antiquing far from home.  I can hardly wait to go back with a giant trailer!  What do you find most around where you live?  Share it with us in the comments.  Now it’s time to see what the “gals” found.

Lora Bloomquist – Create and Ponder

Lora Bloomquist is sharing her vintage fall decor ideas.  Just look at those fabulous deep colors.  I’ve loved her style for years!  You will too.

Robyn’s French Nest

Robyn from Robyn’s French Nest has so many wonderful finds, you can stare at her photos for hours.  Everything seems so cozy!  Hop over to see 10 unique vintage home decor ideas. (Update:  Sorry her link isn’t working.)

Dabbling & Decorating

I love Ann’s style too and her knack for finding the most unique and beautiful treasures!  I’d like to one day visit her home and see all of those goodies.

The Ponds Farmhouse

Rachel has a very creative mind and a talent for fantastic transformations!  Stop by and see some her thrift store finds.  I’ve loved every one of them!

If you’d like to see other fun Thrifting With The Gals posts, click here and here.

Happy Hunting Friends!