After practically a decade-and-a-half of giving classic finds a second life within the coronary heart of Music Metropolis, “American Pickers” star Mike Wolfe is closing a beloved chapter — and a storefront.
Wolfe shared an emotional announcement that the doorways of the Vintage Archaeology retailer in Nashville will formally shut after 15 years.
“Well, Nashville … it’s time,” he started his prolonged put up.
“After nearly 15 amazing years, we’ve made the tough decision to close the doors of our Antique Archaeology store here in Music City. This place has meant the world to me — not just the brick and mortar, but the people. The community.”
He added, “The visitors from all over the world who came through those doors, shared their stories, and reminded me every day why I started this journey in the first place.”
Nestled contained in the historic Marathon Motor Works constructing, the Nashville store has lengthy been greater than only a retail house — it’s been a spot the place classic has been honored.
For Wolfe, its that means runs deep, however he continued to elucidate that even good issues generally require letting go.
“I’ve been so proud to be a part of this neighborhood, this city, and this chapter of life,” he added.
“But sometimes, even when something is good, you have to pause and ask yourself where your time is going — and where your heart is calling you next.”
Wolfe continued to elucidate his Nashville exit and why he has chosen to reside in Iowa in the meanwhile.
“For me, that’s family. It’s slowing down a little, staying rooted, and focusing on the new projects … I’m not disappearing — not even close,” Wolfe reassured followers.
“I’ll still be picking, sharing, and selling online and at our original LeClaire, Iowa store.”
The “American Pickers” star revealed that the shop will stay open till April 27. He shared together with his followers that he’d be on the retailer on April 26.
“This isn’t goodbye — it’s just a new rhythm,” Wolfe concluded.
“I’ll forever be grateful for every moment in that Nashville space, and for all of you who made it more than just a shop. You made it home.”
Wolfe moreover revealed that his determination to shut his retailer was to spend extra time in his hometown of LeClaire, Iowa, the place his 81-year-old mother nonetheless resides.
“Everything I’ve ever known is there,” he beforehand advised The Tennessean.
“I want to drive on roads I’ve driven on my whole life. I want to be around things that are familiar. And I want to be back there more with my little girl and with my mom.”
Wolfe’s determination to shutter his Nashville retailer comes after the dying of his late “America Pickers” co-star and expensive buddy Frank Fritz.
Final month, Wolfe remembered Fritz on the “Day of Reckoning” purple carpet premiere, as he made his movie debut within the Western film.
The “American Pickers” dynamic duo had a particular friendship and starred on the hit present collectively for over a decade.
“Every day we think about Frank on set. He was such a big part of the show. He was my friend since 8th grade. And a lot of times when we are traveling through a property there are so many things that capture our attention that connect us to him,” Wolfe mentioned in an interview with the New York Submit.
Wolfe, who has helmed the present for years, grappled with the absence of somebody who was greater than only a colleague, however a lifelong buddy.
“It’s kind of hard to talk about because it’s so fresh, but he is with us in spirit every single day,” Wolfe mentioned.
In September 2024, Fritz died of issues from a stroke whereas in hospice care.
