Greetings!
The past month has taken our hobby through a true emotional journey—from the highest of highs to the lowest of lows. As we step into this new year, I find myself reflecting on the deep connections that make the Midwest Antique Fruit Jar and Bottle Club so special.
Honoring Our Own
First and foremost, I want to send my heartfelt prayers to the families and friends of Joe Hardin and Marty Troxel. In late December, we lost both Joe and Marty, and their passing leaves a huge hole in our hobby and our hearts.
During this year’s show, we took time to celebrate them and their lasting legacies as we gathered on Thursday evening. They will be dearly missed, but their influence on our community remains.
A Vibrant Show Season
Despite the heavy hearts, the atmosphere at the hotel was incredibly welcoming. It was wonderful to catch up with old friends and simply hang out talking glass. We were also thrilled to see so many new faces this year; a warm welcome to the many new collectors who joined the club!
Our educational sessions were a particular highlight:
- Workshops: These were truly enlightening. I personally learned so much about Ball, Indiana, and extremely rare jars.
- Glassmaking History: We gained new insights into early glass-making techniques and the specific tools used to craft the jars we all love.
- Events: From the club meeting and auctions to the informal get-togethers, the energy was fantastic.
A Premiere to Remember
The movie premiere was, in a word, spectacular. I cannot say enough about the hard work of Dean Buss, Professor Flook, and the talented Ball State University students. This project is a testament to our history, and I can’t wait for everyone to see the official release on March 19th, 2026.
This documentary was made possible by the incredible generosity of Mary Harper and her family. By donating the Harper Collection to Ball State University, Mary brought this fabulous collection “home.” This gift will have a lasting impact on our hobby and served as the true catalyst for the film.
Looking Ahead
As we close out a busy January, I am filled with optimism. We have navigated loss and celebrated our shared passion with equal intensity. I look forward to everything 2026 has to offer and the many opportunities that await us.
Happy Hunting!
Matt
