Ep 1. Road Trip Gold
- January 18, 2021
In the season 4 premiere of American Pickers: Best of, titled "Road Trip Gold," viewers are taken on a journey through the Midwest with pickers Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz as they search for treasures among the forgotten relics of rural America.
The episode starts with Mike and Frank packing up their trusty van and setting off on their first adventure of the season, heading towards a secluded farm in Iowa. There, they meet a man who has been collecting vintage items for over 50 years, including a rare 1930s Garton Tin Lizzy pedal car. The pickers engage in negotiations and eventually strike a deal, adding the collectible car to their haul.
The next stop on the road trip takes the dynamic duo to a motorbike showroom in Missouri, where they discover a 1927 Henderson motorcycle. The owner is hesitant to sell, but after some convincing by the pickers, he agrees to part with the rare bike.
As they continue their travels, Mike and Frank come across an abandoned amusement park in Nebraska. Among the rusted metal attractions and remnants of carnival games, the pickers find an old Wurlitzer jukebox that they just have to have.
In Illinois, the guys visit a 200-acre farm that has been in the same family for over 100 years. There, they discover a vast collection of antique tractors, cars, and even a 1905 streetcar. Negotiations prove tricky, but with some bartering skills and a bit of luck, they nab a few choice items.
The final stop on their trip is an auction in Indiana, where the guys hope to bid on an item they missed out on a year earlier. The pressure is on as they go head-to-head with other bidders, but in the end, they walk away with the prized possession they've been seeking.
Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to the unique personalities and camaraderie between Mike and Frank as they traverse the back roads and byways of America, always on the hunt for the next big find. Along the way, they offer insights into the history and significance of the items they discover, showcasing the importance of preserving these artifacts of yesteryear.
"Road Trip Gold" sets the tone for a thrilling season ahead as the pickers push themselves to the limit, taking risks and making bold moves in pursuit of their shared passion. With unexpected twists and turns, this episode reminds us why American Pickers remains one of the most beloved shows on television.
