Resume of Sarah Whitmore
Passionate antiques dealer and historian with over 20 years of expertise in collecting, restoring, and interpreting antique doorknobs and architectural hardware. Known for uncovering hidden stories behind everyday objects and presenting them in ways that captivate and educate audiences. A meticulous researcher with a flair for storytelling, I strive to preserve history and craftsmanship while inspiring others to see beauty in the details. Quirky and approachable, I’m as much known for my unmatched knowledge of antique hardware as I am for my signature mismatched socks.
Areas of Expertise
- Antique Doorknob Collection & Preservation - Architectural History & Cultural Research - Restoration of Historical Hardware - Storytelling & Public Speaking - Estate Sales, Flea Markets, and Salvage Hunting - Historical Writing & Documentation - Collaboration with Museums and Historical Organizations
Professional Experience
**Independent Antiques Dealer & Collector** Self-Employed | [City, State] | 2003 – Present - Curated an extensive collection of antique doorknobs spanning the 19th and early 20th centuries, including Victorian, Art Deco, Colonial Revival, and Gilded Age styles. - Conducted thorough research on the origins, craftsmanship, and cultural significance of each item in the collection, uncovering untold stories of design, innovation, and social history. - Restored damaged or neglected antique hardware to its original splendor, preserving its historical and aesthetic value. - Collaborated with museums, historical societies, and architectural preservation projects to loan and showcase items from the collection. - Authored articles and blog posts exploring the hidden histories of antique doorknobs and their role in broader cultural contexts. - Regularly attended estate sales, flea markets, and salvage yards to discover rare and unique pieces, honing a reputation as a skilled "treasure hunter" in the antiques community. - Developed relationships with fellow collectors, architects, and preservationists to share knowledge and expand the network of historical hardware enthusiasts. **Guest Speaker & Workshop Facilitator** Various Historical Societies & Museums | 2010 – Present - Delivered engaging presentations and workshops on the art and history of antique doorknobs, captivating audiences with anecdotes and insights. - Hosted hands-on restoration workshops, teaching participants how to care for and preserve antique hardware. - Presented at architectural preservation conferences, discussing the importance of small details like doorknobs in understanding historical design trends. **Consultant, Architectural Salvage and Design** Freelance | [City, State] | 2015 – Present - Advised homeowners, architects, and interior designers on incorporating antique doorknobs and hardware into modern spaces while preserving their historical integrity. - Partnered with architectural salvage companies to identify and appraise rare or historically significant hardware. - Assisted with the design of historically accurate restorations of period homes, ensuring the authenticity of architectural details.
Education
**Bachelor of Arts in History** [University Name] | [City, State] | [Graduation Year] - Focus: Material Culture, Architectural History, and Victorian Design **Certificate in Historical Preservation & Restoration** [Institution Name] | [City, State] | [Completion Year]
Publications
- *“Behind Closed Doors: The Hidden Histories of Antique Doorknobs”* – Featured in [Publication Name], [Year] - *“The Art of Everyday Objects: Why Antique Doorknobs Matter”* – Blog Series, [Year] - *“Craftsmanship in the Details: A History of 19th-Century Hardware”* – Presented at [Conference Name], [Year]
Awards & Recognition
- *Preservation Excellence Award* – [Organization Name], [Year] - *Best in Show: Architectural Antiques* – [Event Name], [Year] - Featured on [Television Show or Podcast Name] for expertise in antique hardware and architectural history
Community Involvement
- Volunteer, Local Historical Society – Organized workshops and educational events on antique hardware and preservation - Mentor, Young Collectors Club – Guided aspiring antique enthusiasts in developing their own collections and appreciation for historical craftsmanship
Quirks & Personal Notes
- Known for always wearing mismatched socks, a playful nod to the individuality and imperfection I celebrate in antique objects. - Lifelong advocate for finding beauty in the overlooked and ordinary, whether it’s a forgotten doorknob or a mismatched pair of socks.
Sarah Whitmore's dedication to antique doorknobs and architectural history showcases her passion for preserving history and inspiring others to appreciate the beauty in overlooked details.
Architectural Historian
National Trust for Historic Preservation, local historical societies, and architectural consulting firms.
Responsibilities
Research and document the history of buildings, architectural styles, and decorative elements, including hardware such as doorknobs and fixtures.
Collaborate with preservation societies, museums, and urban planning departments to protect and restore historically significant structures.
Analyze architectural details to uncover cultural and social histories, presenting findings in written reports or at conferences.
Unique Skills
Expertise in material culture and historical design trends
Ability to interpret historical contexts through architectural details
Museum Curator – Decorative Arts
Art museums, historical societies, and cultural heritage institutions.
Responsibilities
Oversee the acquisition, documentation, and display of decorative arts collections, including antique hardware and household objects.
Develop engaging exhibitions that tell the story of craftsmanship, design, and cultural significance of everyday items like doorknobs.
Conduct public outreach through lectures, workshops, and publications to connect museum visitors with the history of decorative arts.
Unique Skills
Knowledge of period craftsmanship and restoration techniques
Experience in storytelling and public engagement
Preservation Consultant
Historic preservation firms, architectural design studios, and freelance consulting opportunities.
Responsibilities
Advise homeowners, architects, and developers on maintaining the historical integrity of buildings during renovations or restorations.
Identify and appraise antique architectural elements, such as doorknobs, locks, and other hardware, ensuring appropriate use in restoration projects.
Collaborate with architectural salvage companies to source historically accurate materials for restoration efforts.
Unique Skills
Deep understanding of historical design styles
Ability to balance aesthetics with functionality in preservation work
Material Culture Researcher
Universities, cultural heritage organizations, or independent research projects.
Responsibilities
Study historical objects, including antique hardware, to uncover their cultural, social, and economic significance.
Publish detailed papers or books on niche topics, such as the evolution of doorknob designs across Victorian, Art Deco, and Colonial Revival periods.
Partner with museums, universities, or historical organizations to support research and education initiatives.
Unique Skills
Advanced research in material culture
Specialty in architectural elements or decorative arts
Antique Appraiser – Architectural Hardware Specialist
Auction houses, antique shops, and freelance appraisal businesses.
Responsibilities
Evaluate and appraise antique architectural hardware, including doorknobs, hinges, and locks, for collectors, auction houses, or salvage companies.
Research provenance and craftsmanship to determine historical and monetary value of items.
Provide expert consultations to collectors, interior designers, and restoration professionals seeking rare or unique pieces.
Unique Skills
Extensive knowledge of design periods and styles
Ability to identify rare or historically significant items
