By Cindy Cooper
Steve Winters has travelled from city to city around the United States, even crossing international borders, exhibiting his vintage textiles in antiques shows, events, and markets. Collecting brings reward in searching for just the right piece with the most fascinating historical background, and Steve does just that.
From maritime communication pennants used by sailors to signal other ships to antique swimming dresses from the 1950s–1980s, Steve’s passion for vintage collecting is everything Americana. For Steve, it’s the process of finding, restoring, and protecting the pieces that brings him the most satisfaction.
Photography by Mac Jamieson
Steve sells his prized pieces to decorators, other collectors, filmmakers, and historians. He says he looks for items that will be visually appealing once framed. Some of his oldest antique American flags date back to 1900, the mid 1800s, the Civil War, the 1876 Centennial, and up to World War II.
Interior designers may choose signal flags by color for a focal point, while other buyers might be fascinated by the historical significance of a ship’s flag and display one or more in an office setting.
Steve plans to continue his quest to find historical Americana pieces and preserve them, as it has become another way to save the past for future generations.
What’s your vintage style inspiration? Purchase your copy of our Vintage Cottage 2017 special issue today.
