A celebrity at the show

Every day since they came it’s been the same thing for Paul Gorrell: Visitors, phone calls, e-mail, and letters.
“They” were the cast and crew of “American Pickers,” a popular program on the History Channel that features a pair who roam America in search of antiques and collectibles.
“They’ve been to my place seven times,” Gorrell said Thursday at the Tri-State Gas Engine and Tractor Association Show at the Jay County Fairgrounds.
And the TV appearance has made Gorrell something of a celebrity at this year’s show.
But Gorrell, who also comes to Jay County each summer for the Vintage Motor Bike Club’s gathering, is accustomed to being in the spotlight.
He has what he believes is the largest collection of Crosleys in the world, with 47 of the diminutive Hoosier-made vehicles at his garage in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. And he loves to share the collection with the world.
This year he’ll do 30 shows in five states in a 50-day period. He has shown at the Tri-State event since 1972 and is set up near the horse and pony ring this year.
“I try to bring something different every year,” he said.
“This,” he added, pointing to a meticulously restored 1941 Crosley woody wagon, “is one of my favorites.”
The restoration took from January to July. “Six months from rags to riches,” said Gorrell.
Crosleys, which are about the size of a golf cart, were manufactured in Richmond and Marion. And the restored woody drew a steady stream of admirers, as Gorrell fielded questions about the vehicle and his TV appearance.
His philosophy: “Keep life interesting and have fun.”[[In-content Ad]]