Tradewinds Antiques was founded by Nancy Taron in 1979. With no specific specialty, Tradewinds sold China Trade porcelains, Federal country furniture and silver, and was rather eclectic in its offerings. In 1983, Nancy and her husband Henry discovered antique walking canes and acquired their first from a general antiques dealer on Cape Cod. Almost immediately they were captured by their appeal and were pleased to discover that no dealers were exclusively specializing in antique walking sticks in America. Canes had been increasing in popularity with antique collectors in Europe for several years and although written resources were sparse at the time, the Taron's began learning all they could about antique canes through available books, by visiting museums and by developing relationships with other dealers in England and France.

Tradewinds tragically lost its founder Nancy in 1998 in an auto accident. However, another generation joined the company in 1999 with the addition of the Taron's son, Dr. Christopher Taron. Chris is a very knowledgeable cane specialist in his own right with a particular passion for researching early American canes with historical ties. He is credited with discovering evidence that drawings of the influential 19th Century illustrator Thomas Nast inspired the design of Tiffany's famous silver eagle canes.

Recently, Tradewinds celebrated its 15th year of antique cane auctions with a ceremony and dinner for collectors in Salem. Over these past 15 years, Tradewinds has had the privilege of selling pieces from some of the finest collections in the world including remarkable canes belonging to Royalty, Presidents and famous individuals like Charles Dickens. As the popularity of collecting antique walking sticks continues to grow, Tradewinds pledges to remain committed to the cane collecting community. Tradewinds is proud to have earned the trust of both consignors and buyers and is dedicated to being "America's premier cane auction house" for many years to come.

Chris Taron