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The original owners of these fine pieces are my Mother's parents originally from
Leister, England.
William Thomas (originally Titmas) married Violet (Valerie) Rodgers in England in
1938. As a business man, William and his Wife survived living in
England's township of Leister during WWII by owning a carpet and
flooring business. In 1953 they took their two young daughters,
Valerie Jean and Michelle Diane to America to start a new life.
After 23 years of Marriage and 9 years in America, they continued
their professional career as International Ballroom Dancers as the
world renowned team of Thomas and Rodgers. In the late 1960's they
opened up a dance studio in Santa Monica, California where they
continued to teach as well as give exhibitions in many countries
throughout the world, and have received some of the highest awards
that their profession has to offer.
Will Thomas - M.I.D.M.A (honors), M.B.A.T.D. (Honors), M.D.K.A.
(England), M.B.D.T.A. (USA)
Valerie Rodgers - A.B.A.T.D. (England), M.D.K.A.S.(England),
M.A.T.D.Sc. (USA),M.B.D.T.A. (USA)
The many Champions
they trained include the National Champions, USA; National
Champions, Canada; Sweetheart Ball National Champions; Dancing
Cavalcade Champions. In addition they are acclaimed throughout the
world as the couple who introduced the International Style in
America, and their Fabulous "Quickstep" swept the country in the
1950's and 60's. They are said to be the only couple ever to receive
a standing ovation in New York, from Dance Directors and Teachers
assembled at a National Ballroom Teacher's Convention. Having
appeared and taught on the Red Rowe Television show, Station KTLA,
Channel 5 in the USA, many of their pupils were regular dancers on
the Lawrence Welk Show, including the ever so popular Bobby. Other
pupils competed in world events including the World Championships in
Germany and the Star Championships in London.
After they retired
and sold their studio, they continued on as Members and Directors of
the Piccadilly Dance Club. As Directors, club membership rose to
it's height in the 1970's and 80's as Ballroom Dancing took on a
renewed interest with the over 40 crowd. Added to their many
achievements include planning and managing many trips abroad for the
club's membership for the next 20 years of service to the club.
The collection
above is one of their prized possessions that as a child, I looked
forward to "Tea" at Grandma's. However, the collection took it's
biggest hit when the 9.0 Northridge, CA. earthquake destroyed most
of the San Fernando Valley's homes in January, 1994.
Since my Mother's death on January 6, 2003 (Valerie Jean), the
remainder of my Grandmother's estate has been divided among my
siblings and Aunt (Michelle Diane). These are the final
disbursements that need to be settled. Offers for auction are
welcomed. Keeping the sets together is among the foremost when
receiving bids.
www.ReplacementsInc.com
gives values for the more popular Imari (2451) Collection. However,
the more rare pieces have yet to be valued. Speculation is that it
will depend on the collector's desire for the items that will
ultimately give true value to the collection.
You may contact me
at
info@1centwiz.com.
We thank you for
taking the time to consider assisting us with our task.