In a brick townhouse in Alexandria‚ an intriguing estate sale is taking place offering a glimpse into the life of a former lawmaker. The sale which started on 10/15/24 and runs till 10/20/24‚ features over 5‚000 items including designer clothes‚ shoes and accessories.
Muriel Thomas‚ one of the shoppers‚ tried on a pair of Stuart Weitzman boots. “Theyʼre actually so gorgeous“ she exclaimed while sitting in the kitchen surrounded by racks of clothes. The boots priced at $200 (a steal for a brand that can cost up to a thousand dollars) were just one of many luxury items on offer.
The sale marketed as “Haute Couture & Jewelry from a former Congresswoman in Old Town“ has attracted curious shoppers. However‚ most attendees were more interested in the items themselves rather than the identity of their previous owner.
Rooms on three floors of the townhouse were filled with potential purchases:
- Brightly colored high heels and boots lined the stovetop
- Half-used perfumes from Moschino‚ Givenchy and other brands sat nearby
- A mountain of “Louis Faux-ton“ bags on a table
- Authentic designer bags hung from the wall
- Display cases housed gold‚ silver and turquoise jewelry
- A table exhibited Faberge and Waterford crystal
Kristina McCann manager at TM Estate Sales‚ explained that such sales are common for people who are downsizing or moving to retirement homes. The sale is so extensive that a second round is planned for the following week.
While the identity of the congresswoman wasnt disclosed‚ it was later revealed to be Corrine Brown a Democrat who represented Floridas Jacksonville region for almost 25 years. Brown was one of the first Black lawmakers sent to Congress from Florida after Reconstruction.
Browns career however was marred by legal troubles. She faced a federal indictment in 16 related to her education nonprofit‚ lost her primary election the same year‚ and was convicted in 17. After serving over two years her conviction was overturned in 21. In 22‚ she pleaded guilty to a lesser tax offense.
The Brown family stated‚ “We have traveled the world and are hopeful that items we cherish will bring joy to others. We are very excited about our future!“
As shoppers browsed through the items‚ they were left to imagine the stories behind each piece unaware of the complex history of their previous owner