‘American Pickers’ TV show seeking leads for taping in Newton

One of cable’s rustiest, dustiest and unique shows is looking for potential places to film in Newton and Jasper County. History Channel’s “American Pickers” has announced it is searching for leads on locations for filming.

Producers with the popular show contacted Greater Newton Area Chamber of Commerce Director Craig Light earlier this month about seeking assistance to find potential filming locations in Newton.

“I was very happy to hear from ‘American Pickers’ because it would be great national exposure for our community if we could be on TV,” Light said.

Filmed all over the U.S., “American Pickers” follows Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz from Antique Archeology as they work to find hidden gems from old barns, forgotten garages, estates and other collectors. The items are “picked” then sold in their stores located in LeClaire, Iowa, and Nashville, Tenn., or to private buyers. If leads are developed, filming could take place in Jasper County beginning in July.

Cineflix Productions has released a list of various items the duo are looking for including vintage automotive items, early firefighting equipment, pre-1950s Western gear, sports memorabilia, old advertising signs, Houdini items, Civil War antiques and tin, wind-up and cast iron toys.

The production company also shared they are not looking for agriculture items, tools, glassware, appliances, tractors, crocks, stoves or country primitives. Additionally, “American Pickers” only work with private collectors and do not work with stores, auctions, flea markets, museums, or businesses open to the public.

Those who have leads can email producers at americanpickers@cineflix.com or leave a message at 1-855-OLD-RUST. Producers ask that those leaving tips provide first and last name, contact number and a description of the item.

Light also said individuals with questions can contact him for details at the Newton Chamber office, 641-792-5545.

“I’m just hoping we have someone with a very interesting collection to attract them to Newton,” Light said. “It would be great if they came and found something and said ‘We’ve been looking for this for 10 years.’ It is a pretty cool thing for Newton.”

A list of some of the items sought by American Pickers can be found here: http://bit.ly/1I9p2zv