Stars of the History Channel show “American Pickers” may be coming to film on Whidbey Island this fall.
The TV reality show’s stars, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz, are looking for locations to pick up antique bargains.
Lynda Eccles, executive director of the Coupeville Chamber of Commerce, confirmed she’d been contact by the show. The Oak Harbor and Freeland chambers of commerce also they were contacted by show producers about filming on Whidbey Island sometime in October.
Sherrye Wyatt, with Whidbey Camano Tourism, said the show is scouting not only for specific items, but a certain type of character.
“They want someone who will interact with them and have fun with them,” she said.
“And someone who’s willing to sell.”
This is the second time in recent years that the antique hunting duo has visited Whidbey Island.
The episode entitled “Full Steam Ahead” aired Dec. 3, 2012 and featured the pair traveling to Whidbey Island where they found “a graveyard of car grills and a 1947 Chevy pickup.”
“We were successful in the past with having them here,” Wyatt said. “I’m sure that’s why they approached us. I think because they’ve had such a good experience before.
“I think it would be fun if Whidbey Island could be shown again. We have a lot of neat people.”
According to a flyer distributed by the show’s producers, Wolfe and Fritz are looking for vintage items such as motor scooters, bicycles, toys, unusual radios, movie memorabilia, advertising, military items, folk art, musical equipment, automotive items, early firefighting equipment, clothing, civil war antiques, pre-1940s Christmas items and pre-1950s Western gear.
While the show appears impromptu at times, it is actually organized and planned ahead, Wyatt said.
“The show will send out a scout ahead of time,” she said. “They will let you know what to expect.”
The show only picks private collections. No stores, flea markets, auctions or businesses will be featured.
Anyone who thinks they may have the show’s next picking treasure trove can email to americanpickers@cineflix.com or call 1-855-653-7878. Include the contact person’s name, phone number and description of the items.
