Bill Ayers’ Vintage Ice Cream Scoop
A Unique Kitchen Tool from a Revolutionary’s Personal Collection
$200.00
Out of stock
This vintage, single-cast aluminum ice cream scoop, with its distinctive heat-conducting design, is a rare artifact directly from the personal kitchen of Bill Ayers, co-founder of the Weather Underground and one of the most prominent figures in 1960s and 70s American radical activism. With its sturdy, ergonomic form, this scoop was built for heavy use and longevity, reflecting both the practical and timeless design philosophy of its era.
Why This Ice Cream Scoop is Significant: While most recognize Bill Ayers for his political activism, this scoop serves as a tangible reminder of his quieter, personal life—a life centered around family, friends, and community. Imagine Ayers, who spent years rallying against the system, using this very scoop to dish out ice cream during conversations that ranged from light-hearted family moments to deep discussions on social justice. The juxtaposition of such an ordinary object against his extraordinary life makes this piece all the more fascinating.
Provenance and Historical Context:
From Bill Ayers’ Personal Collection: This scoop was found in the kitchen of Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn during an estate sale that was advertised on Twitter, where it was preserved as a part of the couple’s eclectic collection of household items.
Everyday Artifact of a Revolutionary Figure: While it may appear unremarkable at first glance, this scoop is linked to a man whose actions and writings have influenced generations. The significance of such a common tool lies in its connection to a historical figure, elevating it from a mundane kitchen item to a collector’s piece rich with history.
Design and Features:
Single-Cast Aluminum Construction: This ice cream scoop was designed to use the heat of the hand to warm the handle, making it easier to scoop even the hardest ice creams. It’s a classic, utilitarian design that became a staple in American households in the mid-20th century.
Patina and Vintage Wear: The scoop shows signs of wear from regular use, giving it a character that can only be found in well-loved vintage kitchen tools. The patina on the aluminum surface adds to its authenticity and charm.
Condition: The scoop is in good vintage condition, with a few surface scratches and wear consistent with its age and use. It retains its original shape, and the handle’s patina speaks to years of use in a bustling kitchen.
Value and Market Estimate: Vintage aluminum ice cream scoops typically sell for $20 to $50, depending on the brand, condition, and age. However, this scoop’s association with a figure as significant as Bill Ayers elevates its value to a much higher range. Considering its unique provenance, we estimate its collectible value to be $200 to $400, as artifacts tied to radical American history are highly sought after by collectors.
Imagine Using or Displaying This Scoop in Your Home: Picture this unique ice cream scoop prominently displayed in your kitchen, framed in a shadow box, or simply used during special occasions, sparking lively discussions about its origin. It’s more than a vintage utensil—it’s a piece of history that connects to the legacy of a man who has spent his life fighting for justice and equality.
Own a Tangible Piece of Counterculture History—all proceeds from this sale support Shane Bugbee’s upcoming book, Bomb Ass Recipes from the Kitchen of Bill Ayers & Bernardine Dohrn, and the launch of his independent publishing house, Ink Flower Fun Fountain.
Act now—this scoop is more than just a kitchen tool; it’s a slice of radical history that continues to inspire. Don’t miss this opportunity to add a unique piece of the past to your collection.
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Certificate of Authenticity
Each item in this exclusive collection of Unique Artifacts has been personally curated from the home of American revolutionaries Bill Ayers and Bernardine Dohrn. Spanning their long careers as activists and radical organizers, these rare pieces are more than just collectibles—they’re tangible pieces of history that bear witness to a life of resistance, community building, and defiance against the status quo.
Every item comes with a Certificate of Authenticity featuring an embossed stamp that reads: “From the Home of Bernardine Dohrn & Bill Ayers,” accompanied by the Weather Underground logo and the powerful phrase “Power to All People.” This stamp certifies the provenance of these historically significant items, ensuring their authenticity and preserving the legacy of two individuals who helped shape American political activism.
Whether it’s a well-worn political pamphlet that fueled the fires of rebellion or a personal artifact from their private collection, this certificate guarantees that you’re holding a genuine piece of radical history.