Antique Radios Are Back in Style

What better way to spend an hour or so on a cold winter Saturday evening, warming by the fire with the lights down low. Better yet a couple candles providing a flickering light, just enough to supplement the glow from the fireplace. The big floor model Motorola, or maybe a RCA is turned to a comfortable volume. The whole family is gathered around listening to Garrison Keillor's Prairie Home Companion, complete with Powder Milk Biscuits. The snow is falling, the old DeSoto in the driveway is almost buried in fresh white fluff.

Just like a time warp back to the late 40's, all courtesy of the antique radio so carefully preserved by past family members. Grandpa bought it new back in 36', a present for Grandma when they got married. Passed on to Mom and Dad when they were starting out. Now it's yours, to share with your family and continue the tradition. There's something about that radio that represents family values.

When life was simpler, entertainment options were limited, the radio was the predominant source of news, music, and commentary. With regularly scheduled programs the family gathered together in the evenings to sit around the radio, and enjoy Dean Martin or Frank Sinatra. Songs from that time period just sound better over an old tube antique radio. These family gatherings can still take place today, those old radios can still be found.

Where to Find Antique Radios: The best places to run across old tube radios are Estate Auctions, or Estate Sales. As the greatest generation passes on, more and more of these old radios are popping up for sale. Younger family members may prefer more modern styles. Garage sales, yard sales, many times you can find a radio that was passed down but needs some repair, or the cabinet is damaged. If nothing else they can be a good source of parts. E-Bay is a good source of radios, they usually have a variety of styles, sizes and brands up for auction at any particular time.