Marissa has been collecting old beads for about 15 years. When she was a teenager, her mom married a black powder enthusiast, and began attending rendezvous regularly. Marissa went along and was intrigued with the authentic costumes of the Mountain Men, especially their beads and beadwork. Fascinated by the old beads, which were so integral to the economy of the fur trading era, she prowled through museums, and read all she could find on them. . Pink and blue hot trail is in unusually good condition.
Dutch glass seems to be sturdier then most other glasses.
Betsy has been a bead lover since she was a little girl, and always a casual collector. About two years ago she became seriously interested in historical trade beads, and along with Marissa, began traveling to rendezvous around the country to sell, trade, and seek out the special beads that form the foundation of their rich collection. The two women consider themselves primarily collectors and traders. Although they are quick to point out that trading doesn't necessarily mean beads for beads, or beads for goods. They travel, with Betsy's dog, sometimes accompanied by Betsy's husband, in a pickup truck with a camper.