They say that music is the international language, but if you were to think about it, you’d be hard-pressed not to put the hobby of collecting into the same category.
Wesley & Dana of Hollywood History
Throughout history people have had their wealth judged by the amount of things they own. And in many societies, friendships and partnerships cannot be forged unless one meets a certain standard. Thus, by nature, most of us are at least somewhat materialistic.
Not materialistic in the sense that one’s quality of life is determined by their quantity of ownership –after all, intellect still has its perks here in the 21st century– but materialistic in the sense that we’re still driven by the urge to acquire.
Think about it. Do you know anyone who doesn’t have at least one collection?
Whether it’s baseball cards, coins, stamps, knives or even something much more unique, the vast majority of people walking this earth have some sort of collection to hang their hats on.
I, myself, have been an avid collector for most of my life. I’ve been collecting cards, coins and sports memorabilia for as far back as I have memory. And while I could never tell you what drives me to constantly acquire said items, I can tell you that it feels good to sit back and look at the collection I’ve compiled over the years.
Recently, my desire to branch out has introduced me to the hobby of collecting movie props…and it didn’t take me very long to realize how distinctly different the world of prop collection was in comparison to most other collections.
One of the very first people I came across was a man by the name of Dana Hammontree; a very savvy and well-known prop collector from America’s left coast.
Despite a busy schedule and a full house at home, Dana graciously spared a little of his time to sit down and share a few words about the hobby he loves and the one many of us are just now beginning to dive into.
Dan Benton: “Dana, it’s an absolute pleasure. I must say, my head is still spinning a bit from everything I’ve had to learn in such a short period of time –from terminology on down the line– but I think I’m starting to grasp it all. But that actually leads me to my first question. How long have you been collecting and what was your first acquisition?”
Dana Hammontree: “I’ve been collecting since 1996 and first prop Van Kilmer batman cowl from ‘Batman Forever‘.”
Benton: “Is it safe to say that the ‘sport’ of collecting is transforming into something much larger than childhood hobby?”
Hammontree: “The hobby of collecting film props and wardrobes has grown immensely since I started in 1996. The items are readily available now more than ever. I never thought 14 years ago that I would be getting pieces of film history directly from the studios.”
Benton: “What advice would you have for first-time prop collectors and those just now getting into the hobby?”
Hammontree: “Just to be careful, do your research and buy from someone you trust and who has a good reputation. And buy pieces that are near and dear to your heart.”
Benton: “Do you find that people are more apt to seek pieces that are highly valuable or simply meaningful to the individual?”
Hammontree: “I find collectors are often seeking pieces that are meaningful to themselves; that they have a personal connection with.”
Benton: “Although you’re very well known in the circles of prop collection, it’s still relatively unknown that you’re actually turning your hobby into a legitimate business. Can you tell us a bit about Hollywood History and what your aim is to not only make it successful, but to take prop collection to the next level?”
Hammontree: “The hobby of collecting film memorabilia has always been a passion from the start. I have also always enjoyed helping other collectors obtaining props that have a special meaning to them. Last fall, after spending time bouncing ideas off of my business partner Wesley Cannon, we decided to start Hollywood History. With Hollywood History, we are striving to be a full service company. Everything from selling memorabilia, helping collectors find whatever piece it is that they are looking for from the smallest items to holy grails, as well as consigning and displays. Wesley or I are available 24 hours a day, helping collectors in any way we can. We will be staying ahead of the curve as this hobby continues to grow.”
Qui-Gon Jinn's Light Saber (Hollywood History)
Benton: “And when should we expect to see the full impact of what you’re hoping and planning to accomplish with Hollywood History?”
Hammontree: “We are taking Hollywood History slow with baby steps. I am hoping within a year we will be positively impacting the hobby in a huge way.”
Benton: “Dana, it was a pleasure. Thank you so much for joining us.”
Hammontree: “Thank you, Dan!”
Be sure to check out the Hollywood History website when you get a chance and keep an eye out for a follow-up interview with Wesley Cannon.
About Dan Benton
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