It is not an exaggeration to describe Rick Basken’s monumental collection as truly “statuesque.” That’s because in just over 10 years, Rick has passionately put together a massive grouping of nearly 400 beer-branded back bar statues and figurines, representing historical breweries from across the country.
Rick is fascinated by these fragile plaster pieces and how they have somehow survived many decades, despite perhaps being precariously perched on a shelf of a tavern’s backbar. He is interested in the colorful stories they carry of a different time – chiefly the 1930s through the 1950s – when they stood tall, reminding thirsty patrons to buy their brand of beer. Now they are safely showcased behind glass in Rick’s spacious collection rooms and serve as an inspiration to other collectors.