FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 26, 2006 CALAVERAS COUNTY IS ANTIQUE HEAVEN From clawfoot tubs to antique dolls, the Mother Lode is a gold mine of buried treasure (Calaveras County, Calif,) - Looking for Depression glass, a Victorian rocker or the sort of bathtub that Scarlett or Rhett would have loved soaking in? You’re likely to find it in Calaveras County, where several towns dating back to the gold rush days are chock-a-block with shops crammed to the rafters with antiques, collectibles and other wonderful oldies-but -goodies. Some of the buildings are antiques themselves, and more than a few harbor resident ghosts. But the best thing about antique-hunting in Calaveras County is that if you can’t find what you’re looking for in one place, you’re likely to find it next door. You’d need a phone book to list the scores of antique shops in Calaveras County. But here’s some great places to start your search for buried treasures. In San Andreas The Barn in San Andreas (209-754-5746) specializes in antique light fixtures, but that's only the beginning. Practically every lamp here is an art form, and many of them were found in the area. Early Poverty Co. (209-754 5158) has a collectible to match your passion, plus if you’re a cookie monster, you’re home. This place has cookie jars in sizes and shapes you’ve never imagined. San Andreas Trading Post (209-754-5158) features beautiful handmade quilts, some for as little as $100, plus a slew of old-time toys, dolls and teddy bears all looking for a new owner to cuddle them. In Murphys Tic Toc Tique (209-728-2541, tictoctique@msn.com) specializes in old clocks and pocket watches and repair, but also has a bit of everything, including local gold country antiques, games & sports items, as well as furniture and decorator pieces. Even the building itself, which dates back to the 1860s, is an antique. (But it’s not for sale!) D.E.A. Bathroom Machineries (209-728-2031, www.deabath.com) deals in antique and reproduction bathroom fixtures, such as high tank toilet, clawfoot tubs, pedestal sinks, etc. But there’s lots more here to yank your chain, including antique plumbing, lighting, keys and hardware. The century-old building is also rumored to have a resident ghost. Best Friends Consignment Shop (209-728-0116, rklass@goldrush.com) is a unique consignment shop for women's clothing, furniture, household items, and treasures galore. You just might find that vintage evening gown or jacket you’ve been looking for. Antique-itis (209-728-8240) If you’re looking for a gold rush nail, spike, pan or lantern, you’ve found your antique haven. Also, everything “tea”. Villa Mia (209-728-1600, www.VillaMiaAntiques.com) specializes in European and American country antiques from the early 1800's through the early 1900's. Specializing in Quimper pottery dishes. Along with antiques and gifts, the shop also has lots of old iron artifacts and select period art as well as local art and prints. Murphys Books (209-728-9207, mbooks@goldrush.com) sells quality used books and will also help you find that special out of print book you’ve been searching for. In Mokelumne Hill Stone Station (209-286-1488) eclectic antique toys, handmade items, furniture and furniture on consignment. In Angels Camp The Old Love House (209-785-5678) is an historic residence built in 1851 by Alexander Love, famous for bringing the first women to the mining area. Today, the old house is crammed from floor to ceiling with old books, antiques, collectibles, country crafts, English tea pots, tea cups and more. Orphan Annie’s antique emporium (209-736-9086) has just about anything antique or old you might be in the market for. More than 40 dealers showcase everything from Depression glass and Blue Willow plates and platters to antique jewelry and furniture. Wear your walking shoes! "49 off-the-wall ideas in Calaveras County --- take one down, pass it around..." is brought to you by the Calaveras Visitors Bureau. For more information visit www.GoCalaveras.Travel or call (800) 225-3764. This is No. 31 in a series of 49 interesting facts, figures and anecdotes about Calaveras County. Contact: Phil Weidinger Weidinger Public Relations (775) 588-2412, or Lisa Reynolds Calaveras Visitors Bureau (209) 736-0049