By Charles Reeve
Life in lockdown has challenged us all to find ways to entertain ourselves. With another 3 weeks just being added on, ideas for amusement are wearing thin. In an effort to keep myself ticking over I’ve decided to peer up into my attic, navigate myself through miles of old Scalextric track and investigate any forgotten bits and bobs from the weird to the wonderful for a real sense of nostalgia. You never know what you may find and what it can inspire.
Prinz Magnon ZA Projector
This was the first item that struck me by surprise, being much larger and heavier than most other things up in the loft and the fact I wasn’t entirely sure what it was, it really took my interest. The only historian who I had on stand-by for any explanation was in-fact my dad, he quickly explained to me that it was a projector which was used to re-watch old home movies. Specifically those that had been shot on super 8 film whilst he was a child. Although it was missing a few parts I made sure to bring it down with me to see if I could get it up and running.
Leaf Plates
I must admit I couldn’t be-leaf my eyes when I found these… okay I’m sorry. But these Leaf style plates really are a prime example of all the oddity’s that you may not know you own. Although I don’t consider myself enough of an eccentric to add them to my own tableware collection, they definitely did spur my curiosity on. Unfortunately however I did leaf them back up in the attic.
Olympic Starter Pistol For a moment I believed I had a firearm in my possession. However whilst I was refraining from releasing my inner Keanu Reeves, my in-house historian reassured me that it was actually just a starter pistol. The sort which was used to signal the start of races and what not. Unsure if it still works, it still makes a good film prop! Every cloud…
Embroidered Picture
One of the more sentimental items, this was a picture embroidered by my Grandma of a Chinese Dragon. Chinese Dragons are symbolic of being lucky, propitious and noble. I was never aware of my Grandma having an interest in Chinese culture, but I found its symbolism touching when compared to her own personality. I’m sure I can find a better place for this than the attic.
Jean Yarwood – Jay Walk Print
Admittedly the attic was full of old photographs and what not, all covered in dust. This one did stand out however as it was totally different from the rest. Not just because it was a print but because it was completely different to the rest of the photos, even the in house historian wasn’t able to decide who it might’ve belonged to. However with a little independent research I did find out it sells on eBay for around £30! Guess there really is cash in the attic.
Record Collection
I think I can confidently say Records will be a staple feature in most peoples attics. Similarly to printed photos it seems the accessibility of the digital world has run its course on them. Nevertheless listening to records still remains the same therapeutic ritual and within your families old collection you may find something to suit your fancy.
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