The History Channel series "American Pickers" will film in Southwest Michigan this October. The production team is currently scouring the region for private collections to feature on the program. This documentary show, which premiered in 2010, follows stars Mike Wolfe and Danielle Colby as they travel across the country to locate and purchase antique items.
Seeking Local Treasures
The production crew seeks specific categories of historical artifacts. Their list of interests includes vintage bicycles, early toys, and unusual radios. They also hunt for movie memorabilia, advertising signs, and military artifacts. Folk art, antique musical equipment, and early automotive pieces are high on their priority list as well.
Vintage clothing and western gear dating back to before the 1950s also fall under their current scope. The show focuses exclusively on private collections rather than retail stores, malls, flea markets, or museums. This policy ensures the program captures unique finds that have remained hidden from the public eye for decades.
How to Participate
Owners of significant collections in the area are encouraged to reach out to the production team immediately. Interested parties must provide their full name, a reliable phone number, and their current city of residence. A detailed description of the collection accompanied by clear photographs is required for the vetting process.
Submissions can be directed to the email address [email protected]. Alternatively, potential participants can contact the production office by phone at 646-493-2184. The producers emphasize that they are looking for collections that represent a lifetime of gathering unique and historically significant objects.
The Wider Context of Antiquing
Shows like "American Pickers" reflect a broader cultural interest in historical preservation through the lens of private ownership. By traveling to smaller regions like Southwest Michigan, the crew highlights the hidden heritage often stored in local barns, garages, and basements. These items frequently tell stories of American craftsmanship, regional industry, and mid-century consumer culture that might otherwise disappear.
For residents in Southwest Michigan, the arrival of the show provides a rare opportunity to have their personal collections evaluated by professional pickers. It also serves as a reminder that everyday objects, when preserved correctly, possess both monetary value and historical significance. The production schedule for the October visit remains flexible to accommodate the most interesting and robust collections found during the initial screening period.