John Lawson
John LawsonFor John Lawson, every antique holds a story. Whether it’s a 19th-century rocking chair or an old pocket watch, he sees more than just an object— he sees a piece of history waiting to be preserved. A lifelong resident of Sallisaw, Lawson has spent years collecting antiques, slowly filling his home with items that tell tales of craftsmanship, forgotten eras, and simpler times.
John LawsonFor John Lawson, every antique holds a story. Whether it’s a 19th-century rocking chair or an old pocket watch, he sees more than just an object— he sees a piece of history waiting to be preserved. A lifelong resident of Sallisaw, Lawson has spent years collecting antiques, slowly filling his home with items that tell tales of craftsmanship, forgotten eras, and simpler times.
“I’ve always been drawn to things with history,” Lawson says, carefully dusting off an old oil lamp he found at a flea market. “You hold something in your hands that’s been around longer than you have, and you wonder about the people who used it, the stories it could tell.”
Lawson’s love for antiques started small—just a few pieces inher- ited from his grandparents. But as the years passed, his interest grew into a full-blown passion. His weekends are spent combing through estate sales, antique shops, and flea markets in search of hidden gems. From vintage furniture to old tools and framed photographs, he has curated a collection that spans generations.
“I don’t look for things just because they’re valuable,” he explains. “I look for things that speak to me—things with character.”
While some collectors sell or trade their finds, Lawson prefers to keep his treasures, with a long-term goal in mind. He dreams of one day owning a home filled entirely with antiques, or better yet, opening a small museum where others can admire and appreciate history up close.
“I’d love to create a space where people can walk in and feel like they’ve stepped back in time,” he says. “Maybe a museum, maybe a historical-style home— something where these items can be displayed and not just tucked away.”
One of Lawson’s favorite finds is an early 1900s Victrola phonograph, which still plays records with a warm, nostalgic sound.
“That was a special one,” he says with a grin. “Took a little work to get it running again, but it’s like stepping into a time machine when you hear it play.”
His collection is diverse, including everything from old typewriters to Civil War-era coins. Though his house is slowly running out of space, he has no plans to stop collecting.
“I keep telling myself I’ll slow down,” he laughs, “but then I see something incredible, and I just have to bring it home.”
Friends and family joke that Lawson is one step away from living in a museum already, but he embraces the idea.
“If I could wake up every day surrounded by antiques, I’d be happy,” he says.
For Lawson, collecting isn’t just about owning old things—it’s about preserving the past for future generations.
“Everything we have today comes from somewhere,” he reflects. “These antiques are reminders of that. And if I can play a small part in keeping those memories alive, then that’s a legacy worth leaving.”
For now, Lawson will continue his search for the next great find, one antique at a time.
Just Folks is Your TIMES way of honoring the regular people of Sequoyah County, recognizing their unique talents, personalities, jobs, abilities, etc. Your TIMES appreciates the cooperation of each Just Folks and the public’s nominations for this feature. If you know of someone you think might be a good story, contact Amie at 918-775-4433.
