Added a new chair to my collection over the weekend. Chairs of this type were common in the Connecticut River Valley from roughly 1785 to 1810. This one has a nice family history and is of Rhode Island origin. The treatment to the bottom of the splat is unique – I’ve seen these made by at least 35 different hands and never like this example.

Back in 2006 I delivered a lecture on this style of chair at Furniture Forum. Without a doubt it was the highlight of my furniture study career (despite having later published in a rather large study of Southeastern, MA furnishings). These are, as such, close to my heart. The armchair joins two side chairs already in the collection.

Chuffed.

One of the benefits of being a semi-professional tattoo historian is spending time with people like Philadelphia Eddie. Last night, at Independence Seaport Museum, Eddie arrived as our special guest. After my dry lecture, his stories really warmed up the crowd. He’s a legendary story teller and it made for a glorious night.

Also had the honor of sharing the stage with Chuck Eldridge of the Tattoo Archive and Troy Temple, who puts together some top shelve conventions. Kate Hellenbrand showed up as well.

Here’s a Philadelphia Eddie story:

Given gorgeous weather, today was perfect for taking my attractive new friend out on the streets. While we’ve toured Fishtown a few times, sunny skies merited an extended voyage and full test of capabilities. On all counts a success.

Some details…

The raised lettering on this was a massive surprise. Many thanks to Ben and Nathan.

Despite a fast name (Gravel Racer) the bike is spot on for leisurely rides through the city. I’m using a coaster brake, which is just simply fun. Plus, it makes me feel scholarly. A perfect ride for meetings at the museum.

This guy is happier now to have a buddy in the house.

And this guy is just waiting for bad weather again. A Trek Soho S. Simple. No modification at all. Gets through snow. Been hit (with me on) by a car. Survived well.

A few pictures from the last couple months.

A bar in St. Paul… this bloke’s speedo was on the wall celebrating his achievement in local swimming races.

The Paul Molitor Burger (he’s a St. Paul native)… and this is a version of the “juicy lucy” stuffed with Jack cheese.

Super classy wedding cakes.

Horrid bar nachos consumed in St. Paul.

The World Bike Polo Championships, in Fishtown, USA.

As you’ll have realized, I’m from CT. Rappers in the state are few and rarely exceptional. Out of the norm then is Apathy. A member of the Demigodz crew, Apathy’s new record Wanna Snuggle is one of the most mature rap albums I’ve heard in the last few years. There’s a hard edge, but also a number of tracks which show clear progression in both thinking and writing.

Apathy’s from Willimantic, and the state of Connecticut figures strongly in the record. As he says, “If I wasn’t so 860, I would relocate.” Makes me feel a bit of a sap for leaving. I had my reasons, but am taken by his consistent love for CT. In the music industry its certainly not the place to be, however, Apathy has managed to make it (with some help from out of state collaborators like Jedi Mind Tricks).

In the current climate of overtly pop rap and electro clashes, the consistency of Wanna Snuggle and the clear sound scape is compelling. It’s proper rap. And, that it is from Connecticut makes it all the more sweet. The B-Real appearance doesn’t hurt either.

In 2000 I was in New York for Thanksgiving. Desiring a new shirt, I headed to Bloomingdale’s where I walked the floor in search of a flannel. None to be found, I walked in search of help. I asked “Have you got any flannel shirts?” The response baffled, “No, flannel shirts are not in fashion.” My own response might have been a touch rude (“Is comfort and warmth every out of fashion?”), and clearly didn’t help my quest. I ultimately just dialed up LL Bean.

Flannel shirt and wool sweater weather is my favorite. Utility and comfort outweigh “fashion” and the look achieved can range from the composed to the simply scruffy. The items also allow for subtle variation of detail. Given current interest, my options are wider than they were in 2000 (clearly) both in quality and style.

This year I’ve also suffered from a bit of nostalgia. Looser denim and Avirex Jackets entering the imagination. These are items connected to my teen years, and not at all to the typical content of this site. Why, with age and further understanding of “fashion” am I drawn again to things so shunned in the market I cover? The day to day might be a reason (walking around in some of this stuff a sort of “fuck you”). Another is my own fascination with elements of style and the constituent factors within. To certain eyes, the Avirex and baggy jean are simply awful. But, I still find merit in the look (plus I own an Avirex styled jacket that only comedian Richard Blackwood shares… how’s that for odd exclusivity). I’m in hip-hop culture, for better or worse, as both scholar and practitioner (I ex-produced an album last year). Despite a desire for subtle detail in sweaters and flannels, I still want the boldness and brashness associated with the garments of my youth.  Trying to strike a balance. On concession I’ve made is the decision not to buy a 1994 Mazda MPV for use as an accessory. I let my homie One cop it instead.

Switching out sneakers and boat shoes for boots is another fall joy. I have, in comparison to summer, a much slimmer rotation in fall and winter. Due to some dull moments over the weekend, I’ve prepared some photos. I think this trio represents the very duality in wardrobe and conflict in look that is currently waging war on my person.

Lodger for Real Real Genuine.

Wolverine.

Obvious.

While I’m no Max B*, I am perfectly willing to celebrate a few things from a state I spent a solid portion of life in. In 1992, I moved from DC to Bloomfield, CT. In fairness, this seemed like a slap in the face. I was reaching an age of urban freedom – the Metro and all its possibilities just a step away. Yet, in time I found the joys of New England life. I could ski in my own backyard (literally). I started mountain biking. I began to wear boat house jackets.

My father remains in CT, splitting time between Hartford and Old Lyme. This commute is perfect for stopping for some local food gems. This includes Ted’s Steamed Cheeseburgers. Rather than recount the history (done very nicely here), here is a shot of the wonderful sign outside.

Not far from Bloomfield is West Hartford. In the Center Harry’s Pizza serves New Haven style pies. The recipe was stolen. From where?

* Max B’s “CT BITCHES” is a great ode to the state’s thirsty sluts.