History
Scudder’s Gallery is an 83 year old firm founded by Mrs. Della Scudder in Silver Springs, FL in 1925. Mrs. Scudder retired from the business in 1950 and her son Frank (Al) Scudder took over the management. The business at that time was more retail of antiques and gifts until June 17, 1955 when a fire destroyed all the buildings at the Silver Springs attraction and they were out of business until they could rebuild. During this time Al started the Auction business. The first auction was conducted in Della Scudder’s courtyard behind an iron gate on July 1st 1955 selling the antiques and fine art that were saved from the fire. Scudder’s had been doing most of the estate and insurance appraisal work for the banks and attorneys in central Florida. With all of this in mind Scudder’s was able to start selling these estates.
Scudder’s conducted auctions throughout the year. In 1975 Mr. Scudder purchased their building on Main Street in Highlands, NC and in June of 1976 started their auction business in North Carolina.
They are now celebrating their 33rd year in Highlands and looking forward to a great year. Mr. Frank A. Scudder Jr. is the president of Scudder’s and Al Scudder is the Chairman of the Board. Scudder’s starts their season the first week in June and conducts auctions every evening Monday-Saturday at 8:00pm through the weekend after thanksgiving.
Scudder’s specializes in many forms of art such as 17th, 18th and 19th Century English, American and European furniture, fine Oriental carpets from Persia, Russia, China and India, fine oil paintings by both antique and contemporary artists, an extensive collection of fine jewelry from estates and private consigners. There are many diversified items sold at each auction, chandeliers, new furniture, mirrors, collectable items, ect.
