Collecting: Lemp Beer

Q: Several weeks ago, I purchased some early bottles that originally contained Lemp Beer. I have never heard of Lemp Beer, but assume they must be worth more than the 25 cents each I paid for them. — Robert, Naperville, Ill.

A: Adam Lemp began brewing beer in St. Louis in either 1838 or 1840 (the date varies according to the source). Operations continued until 1918 when the brewery closed quietly — workers discovered the gates locked when they showed up for work. Lemp Beer collectibles are extremely popular throughout the Midwest.

Don Roussin is one of the most knowledgeable people about the early brewery history of St. Louis. He is a member of the Brewery Collectible Club of America and may be contacted at the BCCA office, 747 Merus Court, Fenton, MO 63026; bcca@bcca.com; www.bcca.com; and 1-636-343-6486.

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Q: I have a framed work from Severt Berkeness that depicts many small silhouettes, everything from elderly people in rocking chairs to little girls in frilly dresses chasing kittens. My piece is dated July 1943. I would like to contact someone is who knowledgeable about this type of art. — M.T.V., via e-mail

A: Alda Horner is an expert. The address is 3700 Dean Drive, Unit 3301, Ventura, CA 93003. The Peabody Essex Museum has a large collection and one of its curators might also be able to help you. The contact information for the museum is Essex and Salem streets, Salem, MA 01970.

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Q: We own a violin that is signed “Jacob Stainer — 1677.” Who can we contact to get an accurate idea of how much it’s worth? Our last offer was $75,000. — Vita, Middletown, Del.

A: I contacted Andrew Dipper, who buys, sells and appraises historic string instruments. He has agreed to help you. Contact him c/o Givens Violins, 1004 Marquette Ave., Suite 205, Minneapolis, MN 55403. For a second opinion, Robert Portukalian is also an expert. His address is c/o Providence Violin Shop, 1279 North Main St., Providence, RI 02904.