What a beautiful place we all get to call home. I’ve lived in Southern Oregon most of my life. I was raised in Talent and now I live in Ashland, where I have been a proud resident for almost 20 years. The amazing scenery, friendly people and my loving family has made it easy for me to not stray too far from the nest. My son Wylee, my true pride and joy, turned 13 this year. Raising him here in the Rogue Valley and sharing with him all the wonderful things our community has to offer has been the biggest blessing a father could ask for. I couldn’t be more proud of him and the young man he’s becoming.
I was just 8 years old when we moved here to Oregon. My father David Bobb opened American Trails Gallery in the heart of the Ashland Plaza. At that time a horse and carriage would park right across the street from the front door of our shop. Waiting there for the next customer to take a jaunt around the park. 20 feet tall Shakespeare banners flanked the boulevard. My brother and I would rove like wild banshees for hours throughout Lithia Park. Eventually making our way back downtown to wander the aisles of Rare Earth or Renaissance Rose and if we were lucky get a treat from the fudge shop at the end of the block. My dad always trying to convince us to try the dubious bubbling Lithia water in the plaza square. All the while in the background, the melodic and rhythmic rumblings of a nearby drum circle would drift through the air. What a trip Ashland was and is!
As adults my brother and I ended up joining the family business managing the gallery downtown. That experience was a real education. The ins and outs of running a business day to day. Working with local artisans. Procuring handmade Native American art, jewelry and textiles from our partners throughout the Southwest. Being surrounded by amazing things and seeing the joy they brought to our customers was very rewarding.
My mother Glenda was an exceptional artist. Thankfully this trait was passed on to me. There was always a pad of paper and art supplies within reach. Living amongst and creating art is something that has always felt natural and comforting for me. Similar to the gallery, growing up our home was adorned with Art. Antiques, wooden carved masks from Mexico, Native American baskets, Navajo weavings, original paintings and photography were in every room of the house. The story behind each artifact or creation was just as interesting to me as the piece itself.
As an adult I’ve grown to enjoy seeking out and hunting for treasures of all types at local antique malls, thrift shops and estate sales. So much so, now every wall in my home is also filled and every shelf packed with trinkets. I’ll be the first to admit that I’m an addicted vintage collector. When I find a once cherished piece of history or an item I’ve never seen before I become intrigued. I can’t help myself and have to bring it home. As much as I’d like to keep them all. It is time to let go of these delectable objects of virtue that I have curated over the years and share them with you all.
I want to thank the owners of the Ashland Artisan Emporium, Derek and Leah, for giving me the opportunity and an outlet to offer my unique, vintage one-of-a-kind items at a fair price. My booth, along with dozens of other wonderful vendors are all waiting for you seven days a week in the Ashland Shopping Center. I’m continually updating the booth with new items so during your future stops there should be something new to see. If there is something you collect or are looking for let me know and I will add it to my list of objects to look for. You can email me at thriftgoatbooth@gmail.com. We look forward to your visit. With your help I hope to keep this vintage addiction alive.
Sending my love far and wide to all the wonderful people in my life. Especially to my little sister Megan. You are always and forever in my thoughts. Please hug your family and friends and don’t forget to let them know you care for them. Thank you. Arty Bobb
