Collectors look to sell 1876 Rinckle mirror

Charles and Shirlee Veverka have sought out pieces of Carson City and Nevada history like 19th century miners seeking veins of silver in the Comstock.

But the Veverkas, residents of Carson City for 38 years, are moving to La Quinta, Calif., and want to find a home for at least one of their favorite antiques before needing to send it to a Los Angeles auction house.

Shirlee bought it from her seamstress, Sew-N-Sew owner Barbara Baker, six years ago.

"She asked me, 'Would you be interested in buying a piece of Carson City?'" Shirlee said.

Baker was selling a gold-leaf French mirror bought at the U.S. International Centennial Exposition in Philadelphia in 1876. Shirlee said the mirror was bought from the French display at World's Fair by Baker's great-grandfather, Mathias Rinckel.

The mirror is being sold for $7,000 and was part of the original furnishings of the Rinckel Mansion, which was built in 1874. The mirror stood in the front parlor of the mansion on Curry Street, complemented by other French accents.

"We have always treasured any and all antiques and this Carson City find was a real treat," Shirlee said.

Just like Mathias Rinckel, the Veverkas have the mirror at the front of their Victorian style house, designed by Carson City architect Art Hannafin. The figure-length mirror is against a wall in the foyer to the side of the stairs. The couple have collected other pieces, including a cherry-wood partners desk from the office of Judge Thomas P. Hawley. He was the first federal judge in Nevada to occupy the Federal courthouse, now the Paul Laxalt State Building and home to the Nevada Commission on Tourism.

But the Veverkas are leaving and the mirror must stay.

"Have you ever wondered what things could tell?" asked Shirlee. "I wonder about that. I personify pieces of furniture."

With their house sold, the Veverkas will set out in three weeks for their new home with Norwich terriers, Ripley and Sammy. They Veverkas know several Carson City couples in La Quinta but consider Carson City their home, evidenced by their plans to build a small summer residence in Carson City.

The Veverkas will miss the Rinckel mirror and hope someone in the area will purchase it to keep in town -- "where it belongs."

"It's magnificent," Charles said. "It makes you wonder how many ladies have stood in front of it in year's past."

IF YOU GO

What: Veverkas' yard sale

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday

Where: 533 W. Caroline St.

Includes: Baby items, many books, dishes and furniture.