After reading an article by Mr. Patrick Dunne, “Elegant Evolution”, in the March/April issue of Southern Accents, I felt inspired to write about my love for antique corkscrews. The article was about his home in New Orleans, which was my home for 45 years. I felt the same passion for my home and belongings as Mr. Dunne conveyed in his description and photos of his home. I shared with a friend, that when I began decorating my home in Little Rock, AR, I was told by a contractor who hung a chandelier in my dining room and a bed crown in my master bedroom, “Your home looks like New Orleans.” At that point, I knew I was on the right track; that my home was a reflection of me, a lady from New Orleans.

I also was inclined to call the antique shop that Mr. Dunne is the “proprietor” Lucullus, and let him know how much I enjoyed the article. It also reminded me of my first and only antique corkscrew that bought on Magazine Street in New Orleans while spending time with my daughter who still lives and works in our beloved city. I talked to a lovely representative from the shop, Michele, and told her my story. I told her that the article made me feel connected to home and reminded me of my first antique corkscrew. I told her it was tucked away in a drawer, and she encouraged me to find it and use it. She told me that at Lucullus, they encourage people to use antiques. She said if the corkscrew is in good condition, “Open up your favorite bottle of wine and use that corkscrew!” So, I looked for my first I hope of many antique corkscrews and put it in my kitchen drawer with all my other wine gadgets

The shop keeper did not have any information on my corkscrew except that it came from an estate and it may be from the late 1800’s. I think that may be correct due to a couple of reasons: New Orleans has a deep history of food and wine, and there was a lot of aristocracy of many levels in the city of New Orleans, especially during the time the corkscrew would have been purchased. I have conjured up a story for my corkscrew that suits me just fine. I think that it was a gift that was purchased for a prosperous free woman of color by her French Cotton Barron lover. He wanted her to have the right tool to open his wine when they had their forbidden tryst. How sexy and interesting does that sound?

Collecting antique corkscrews is still attainable for those of us who may not be of the wealthy persuasion. I was told by Michelle at Lucullus, that a corkscrew from the 1800’s can be obtained for $45.00 up to; well that amount depends on the age and rarity of the corkscrew. She told me she would email some examples in the $45.00 price range. I can’t wait to see them!

Well, as you can see, wine can open your world to so many other passions of the heart. I’ve seen reasonable corkscrews on www.ebay.com , just search, antique corkscrews. Also, you can contact Lucullus at (504) 528-9620 or visit them at 610 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70130. You can also search online by entering antique corkscrews and let your mouse be your guide. There are so many styles to choose from, just determine what your style is and if you are purchasing them to be used or displayed. I choose to purchase ones to use. When I think about the hands that have touched my corkscrew, I smile and imagine; and just maybe my corkscrew was owned by a prosperous free woman of color who lived in the French Quarters or Faubourg sections of town. So, start collecting and creating your own tales, inspired by those antique corkscrews.

By: Lorrie S. LeBeaux