Does anyone remember Herters?
https://prezi.com/sw59mojxuigy/the-history-of-herters/
I used to love reading their catalog. still have one around somewhere.
In Herter’s catalog, I liked the Winemaking equipment, on the opposite page from the “Water Distillation” equipment .... along with the warning “Distillation of Wine is extremely illegal” (wink wink).
The catalogs were a hoot, and the rest of the operation was "interesting" as well. A friend of mine still looks back fondly at going to the short-lived Herter's store that was in the Rocksylvania neighborhood of Iowa Falls (IA); I think the building may still be standing.
I liked Cabela's better back when they offered less... particularly less Chinese-made crap. Bass Pro Shops = "meh."
Mr. niteowl77
Yep, George and Bertha.
George always had interesting stuff. I still have a pair of old worn wool socks from them for sentimental reasons and the “Improved” bowie knife.
Their guns were no frills but very cheap and made by good manufacturers.
I bought one of their turret reloading presses [used, $5] when I was a teenager. That’s what led me to their catalog. Good stuff, cheap!