What is it? Back on the Farm

This is an early Bee Smoker used to subdue bees so that the beekeeper could get the honey. Estimated Retail Value $48 and sometimes these go higher if there is a name printed on the side. The backend would be like a bellows and when pump some smoke out (burlap, straw or grass) which would come out to make the bees mad. When they are mad - they begin to eat their own honey which will make the bees very calm. When they become calm that’s when the beekeeper can harvest the honey. With all the beehives around the area these days it is good to know that people use to raise bees. Years ago, you could order your bees from Southern States and they would be delivered through the mail in a small box (the queen would be in a separate little box and would always be mad). You could also order your hive too. But “Bee” careful when driving these little guys home - because some would always get out of the box and which makes for an exciting drive. Has anyone ever seen one of these being used in Gloucester or have an interesting story - Give us a call at Holly Hill Farm Antiques 695-1146.