AUTOGRAPHS

This is a topic I never get tired of blogging about . Every age and every generation seems to be mesmerized by obtaining somebody's John Q. Since the days of the incredible quill ink pens folks have sought autographs... from the rich and famous to the infamous like Charles Manson. I know a man here in West Brookfield who once owned a George Washington signature. Two years ago I handles a massive autograph collection. This was good as I learned a thing or two.

An autograph collector must be passionate in his quest. You must remember people like MADONNA receive millions of requests and yes, it is all about money. Pete rose is like a machine in his "signing" at baseball collector's shows. My sons Ben and Josh were taught how to obtain sports autographs. I taught them. Send a SASE to the ball park where they play. Incredibly so...a year and a half later they got signatures in the mail. But why? FAME AND FORTUNE!

The fans 'own the players.' But the politicians are sought after by their supporters. There are mailbags full of solicitations. My trick in successfully getting results is to GIVE THEM SOMETHING! Many times they reciprocate. It worked with me in G.H.W.B. I sent his a postcard from Holy Cross and he reciprocated with a Presidential Tie Clip. You can be sure con men constantly seek the Rich and Famous. Just ask Robin Leach.

Cancelled checks of the famous are sought after. Autograph dealers...the big boys are in a much different league. Hitler's signature is probably the best example. finding historical documents bearing signatures is most rewarding. I have had my share of fun. I am an Autograph Hound and admit it. I once bought a series of autographs at Sotheby's in NYC. It was exciting and very expensive and almost caused a divorce.

So there you are.....an endless source of pleasure. The key to it all

is to ASK!