Ep 5. Mountain Mayhem

In season 11 episode 5 of American Pickers titled "Mountain Mayhem," the dynamic duo of Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz embark on an adventure through the mountains of North Carolina in search of hidden treasures. As they drive through the winding roads, they encounter interesting characters and historic sites that highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The episode begins with Mike and Frank cruising through the outskirts of Asheville, North Carolina, as they spot a large yard full of antiques. They pull over to investigate and are greeted by Don, a retired mechanic who has spent his entire life collecting unique items. Don's yard is filled with vintage cars, oil cans, old tools, and other interesting items that have been in his family for generations. Mike and Frank eagerly inspect the items and make a few deals with Don, ultimately leaving with a few valuable pieces.

Moving on from Don's yard, the pair heads up to the Appalachian Mountains to visit a legendary antique market. The market, housed in a large warehouse, is known for its vast array of treasures, ranging from vintage clothing to rare collectibles. Mike and Frank are thrilled to scan through the endless possibilities, and they quickly find several items they can use in their business.

After the market, Mike and Frank head towards a town known for its historic architecture. As they pass through, they stop at an antique store run by a quirky couple who has been collecting for decades. The store is full of vintage toys, posters, and antiques from all eras. They chat with the owners and learn about the history of the town and the importance of preserving its treasures.

As they head further up the mountains, the two come across a makeshift flea market in the woods. The market is run by a group of local artists who specialize in metalwork and handmade crafts. Mike and Frank check out the unique items, and they are particularly impressed by a collection of old advertising signs.

Their journey continues as they come across a small town that was once a hub of industry in North Carolina. They visit a historic textile mill that has been converted into a museum, which focuses on the region's industrial history. The museum is filled with antique tools and machinery that date back to the early 20th century. Mike and Frank are filled with awe and respect for the craftsmanship and ingenuity of the workers who operated these machines.

The final stop of their journey is a unique antique store in a renovated tobacco warehouse. The owners specialize in unusual pieces and have an impressive collection of taxidermy and animal skulls. Mike and Frank are intrigued by the oddity of the store and spend some time investigating the items. They ultimately find a few items that fit in with their collection and make a deal with the owners.

Overall, in "Mountain Mayhem," Mike and Frank venture through the North Carolina mountains and discover a wealth of hidden treasures. They delve into the rich culture and history of the region, meeting interesting people and hearing fascinating stories along the way. As always, they leave with a few valuable items and fond memories of their journey.