Unusual souvenir china thimble from The Collector's World of Eric St. John Foti and the Magical Dickens World in Downham Market, Norfolk, England. This souvenir china thimble features a replica of Eric St. John himself on one side, and an advertisement / souvenir of The Collector's World of Eric St. John Foti and the Magical Dickens World, Downham Market on the other. Gold trim at the base, this china souvenir thimble is in excellent condition with no chips, cracks, fading or other damage to note. Unmarked as to maker, it measures 1-1/8" tall and 7/8" wide at the base.
Possibly Norfolk's greatest eccentric and prolific collector, the original Mr 'Norfolk Punch' himself, Eric St John-Foti has displayed his extraordinary lifetime collections, open to the public all year round. Eric is a well-known personality and has appeared on many TV programs, most recently "Flog It" and "Artyfacts". Eric's intention of building the museum was to set out all his collections for everyone, whatever the age, to enjoy. Collectors' World has become a popular tourist attraction.
Set in tranquil grounds, with peacocks and doves, at least two hours should be set aside for a visit - longer if you wish to visit the animal sanctuary or walk along the mile and a half river frontage on the River Great Ouse. A picnic area is available, plus tea room and gift shop. With rooms dedicated to Lord Nelson, Dickens, the 1960s and Dame Barbara Cartland, the unexpected is around every corner at the Collectors World of Eric St John Foti. This museum with a difference is just outside the town of Downham Market in Norfolk.
Eric St John Foti has packed a remarkable amount into his 75 years. He has been a lawyer, an actor, an inventor and a hat designer, but collecting is his passion. For the more romantic visitor the Pink Room houses the world's largest collection of Barbara Cartland memorabilia. Eric never threw away his old television sets, radios or LPs - so he turned the whole lot into a 60s room that includes a special tribute to Freddie and the Dreamers.
As well as housing the only Armstrong Siddeley Car Museum open to the public, this must be the only museum where an old Concorde engine is under the same roof as a room dedicated to the actress Liza Goddard. Eric says the public are invariably amazed by the displays.
A2001 - Collectible Souvenir Thimble COLLECTOR'S WORLD of Eric St. John Foti and the Magical Dickens World / Downham Market, Norfolk, England
$6.00 First Class Mail
