Figural Cast Iron Collectors Form New Club

In response to the upsurge of interest in figural cast-iron objects, the Figural Cast Iron Collectors Club (FCICC) has been formed. This new international association is a non-profit based in south-central Pennsylvania, where many of America's earliest iron foundries were located.

John and Nancy Smith, who have been involved in the hobby for 35 years, and Karen Novak, formed the nucleus of the club, which reportedly already has 20 members. This number is expected to increase with the organization's awareness efforts, which include a recently mailed flier.

“It seems there is plenty of interest in starting a club like this, but everyone has been waiting for someone to pick up the ball and run with it,” said Novak. “I got involved because I admire early cast-iron pieces and collect figural bottle openers. Bob Brady, who's a very well-known cast-iron bank collector, was quick to join, and is also helping us get off the ground.”

The group's goal is to draw members from throughout the United States and abroad, liaising with other specialty collecting clubs whose particular focus of interest also crosses into the cast iron realm.

“You'd be amazed how many antique and vintage items collected today are made of cast iron - banks, bookends, clocks, doorknockers, umbrella stands, architectural elements, paperweights, match safes - the list is endless,” Novak said.

A “meet and greet” event for charter members will be held March 31, 2006 at the Holiday Inn in Denver, Pennsylvania, home of the Adamstown antiques strip. Complimentary drinks and hors d'oeuvres will be served from 8-10 PM, sponsored by Diamond International Galleries.

The FCICC is an independent organization with no outside affiliation.

“We are looking for other companies who would be willing to underwrite the cost of our future events,” said Novak.

There is a $30 per year membership fee for FCICC, with the annual membership cycle beginning in March. For additional information or to join, visit www.figuralcastiron.org, or write to FCICC, 2833 Quaker Valley Road, New Paris, PA 15554.