In October of last year, Josh and I flew to Geneva, Switzerland to begin our first European vacation together. We had great plans for this trip, not only would we visit the beautiful Swiss Alps, but we were to embark on a cruise through the locks of southern France on the Canal du Midi. Behind all of our plans, however, was one master plan -- INSULATOR HUNTING! Taking TGV trains from Switzerland to France we passed many downed lines along the rails -- whetting our appetites for some foreign insulator specimens.

Once aboard our barge, we had a great opportunity to cruise slowly by hundreds of varieties of white porcelains, green gingerbreads, tiny Belgium brands and the list goes on and on. We shored up for a couple of nights outside Carcasonne, France, and made out for a walk along the tow path we had just scoped out. There were many poles laying on the ground with their insulators intact. Other poles were still standing which made it more challenging to access their jewels. We were able to retrieve our select insulators, but had a heck of a time getting them removed from their pegs, because they were secured with a very stubborn concrete substance. After a lot of soaking and chipping of the plaster, we ended up with some great specimens. In all, we came back with 21 "new" insulators. Better yet, we introduced our travel companions to the fascinating world of insulator hunting -- adding a different and exciting twist to everyone's trip.

Josh Colwell and some of the jewels from his European trip. Getting those pins free from their cement-laden pins is a real job!

P.S. The "Gingerbread Man" drawing by Gus Stafford on the cover of August 1993 edition of Crown Jewels, is a rendering of the insulator we brought back for him. Thanks to Gus, with his broad knowledge of insulators and a great trading collection, our enthusiasm for the hobby has grown. Best of luck to you in Kansas, Gus! Happy Hunting!

Two sets of four position brackets on a building. 
Three of the four positions still have a gingerbread boy in 
position...and no wires attached. Grab your ladders!