I first met Robbins when I started at Denison in 1972. I majored in instrumental music. My favorite professor, George Hunter (no relation), was Denison’s band director, and he took us to Robbins’ antique shop to see all the various musical instruments, including the Broadwood piano in the back, two pipe organs, and many smaller instruments. The inventory was always changing, and the shop, Avery House, was so full of stuff it was hard to get through. Robbins even had stuff piled on the porches. Village council got after him. I remember one councilman saying, “Now Robbie, we know you can be very outspoken.” Robbins responded, “I intend to become more so with age.” He was a riot.
Robbins Hunter, Jr. c. 1974-1975; Photo credit: Michael Williams
Robbins was of an age that he didn’t drive at night (as I am now). He asked me to drive him to antique auctions. What a learning experience! We went all over Ohio, but one of my favorite destinations was Garth’s in Delaware, OH. I also took him to concerts at Denison, Licking County Symphony, etc. I even took him to a few parties in Columbus. He seemed to know everyone, and everyone liked his affable manner. As a treat we went to see Bette Davis at the Ohio Theater. This had to be 1974 or 1975. I’ll never forget going to see the movie ‘The Exorcist’ 1973, which we both found hilarious, though it was not meant to be funny.
I remember when the fountain (behind the Warner house at the Buxton) was at Avery House. It came from a beautiful house in Lancaster, my hometown.
I remember when the Octagon Room was started, by Larry Swartzenberger. Larry restored the house I lived in for 25 years, on Hudson Ave. in Newark. Larry was very talented, and did Robbins’ room from a picture. At the time, we all thought Robbins had flipped his lid. I’ll never forget when Larry opened up the back of the house. This was in the dead of winter. In the middle of it, he decided to take off to Mardi Gras! Robbins was furious, but it certainly turned out to be beautiful.
After Robbins passed, the saddest part was the BIG auction to empty Avery House. I know it had to happen, but all the beautiful things were sold.
Look at it now! I hope Robbins would be pleased!