History
The Clarkes have a mutual love of retro or vintage merchandise, especially advertising tin or vinyl items. They have been collecting lunchboxes together since their second date. Duane had five or six but the collection has grown to over 700 plus doubles that they sell. They first housed and curated their items in an old Victorian house in Petaluma, CA in Sonoma County but it grew so much that they bought the firehouse in Nice, CA in Lake County, as an investment but also to keep their items safe, not in a storage place. Over a six year period, they slowly renovated the old brick building into the museum, replacing the fire doors and making a colorful carnival motif inside. They would bring a load up every weekend as they were both working in Sonoma County. Deb continued teaching and selling as Retrodeb, acquiring 9000 feedbacks and a short film made by Ebay about their collection. It has been a fun journey with their move and eventual retirement to Lake County, CA plus the shop.
Specialties
The Clarkes made a carnival experience in their old fire house located in Nice, Lake County, CA in 2009. Within this fun building, there are over 700 unique lunchboxes on display plus rare ponytail or Barbie items. Retrodeb is an eBay seller with 9000 positive feedbacks on three ID's. They sell their doubles in their collection or movie, music, retro, television, vintage MIB collectibles thoughout the shop. They often have writers or film crews in the shop for unusual collector segments in the over 1000 sq ft venue. Customers may buy one item but are encouraged to take many pictures or film to share with family/friends on facebook or travel websites. It is a place where they can share issues about not getting a certain toy as a child. Many locals or tourists stop in for something to do or just enjoy for free tour, bringing back precious memories. They often want to find their lunchbox. The goal of the retired couple is to put a smile on your face and if you buy something great!