In the early part of 1973, Dave Longaberger noticed that many department stores were selling imported baskets. It occurred to him that people might also have an appreciation for baskets like the fine handcrafted ones his father had taught him to make many years before. With his father’s help, he made a dozen “market baskets” and took them to a shop in a near by town. The baskets sold instantly, confirming Longaberger’s belief in his product, and in the fall of 1976 Dave opened “J.W.’s Handwoven Baskets” of Dresden, Ohio. The small shop had only five weavers at its inception but would grow into what we now know as the Longaberger Company. Even though the value of most Longaberger baskets has decreased considerably in past years, these very early baskets are still bringing several hundred dollars to the right collector.
Native American coiled baskets have been made for thousands of years by tribes across the U.S., but it those made for tourist trades in the late 1800s and the very early part of the 20th century that today’s collectors watch for. While we often think of “souvenirs” as inexpensive trinkets, these baskets from 1880-1920 were handmade by weavers who would often put a full year of labor into a single basket. The tribe and area of the country from which these baskets originated is denoted by the coiling technique and choice of materials used. Depending on age, rarity and condition these baskets can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand in value.
The hand-crafted beauty and durability of Shaker baskets put them at the top of the “must have” list for serious collectors. Made from black ash, which was in plentiful source in the area of New York state where they originated, the cheese basket is one of the most highly sought designs. This round basket, with it’s open hexagonal weave, derives its name from its use in separating the curds from the whey in the production of cheese. Wash baskets, gathering baskets used in the fields and fruit baskets are also highly desirable. Each of these “working baskets” were made for heavy everyday use so finding one in good condition is rare. “Fancy” Shaker baskets (such as the cat’s head and the spoon) were made to be decorative items and were produced for retail sale in hotel gift shops. These received little wear and are often found in mint condition. You will currently find a nice selection of Shaker baskets on eBay in the $100-$300 range.
Many of us remember our grandmother’s sewing basket and may even have been fortunate enough to have inherited it. Sewing was a way of life through the first half of the 20th century, making sewing baskets a staple item in most homes in America. Collectible basket cover a wide price range. To the low end are the wicker baskets with a wooden lid produced by Princess and Harvey from 1930-1950. These baskets can be found in both round and square designs with a braided cord handle and decorated with flowers, sewing tools, or poodles. You will currently find a nice selection of them on eBay in the $35-$45 range. For the more serious collector there are the free standing baskets from Haywood Wakefield which can run you from $300-$400.
It is not recommended that baskets be washed or treated with oil. Instead, dust them regularly using a vacuum hose covered on the end with a piece of nylon net. Mold is common on baskets of considerable age, but this is an easy fix. Seal your basket in a plastic bag and place it in the freezer for 48 hours. Remove any remaining residue with an artist’s brush and allow to dry thoroughly before returning to your display. Until next time . . . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com
