(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — Nearly two years after his death, the family of former Illinois Governor James R. Thompson is putting some of his most prized personal and political possessions up for sale on Friday and Saturday.
Thompson, a deal-making Republican known as “Big Jim,” was in office from 1977 until 1991, making him the longest-serving governor in state history.
Annie Adams of Nest Estate Sales is managing the event at the Winnetka home of Thompson's daughter, Samantha.
Adams said the eclectic array of antiques, art, books and political memorabilia gave her a better sense of who Thompson was and how he led the state.
“What you see in the house is this beautiful collection of pieces from different time periods, and it’s reflective of how Jim took different opinions and worked with them to create a cohesive plan for the state of Illinois,” she said.
Thompson, a former federal prosecutor and high-powered lawyer, was known for having a keen eye for the finer things in life. The items up for sale this weekend include pieces of mid-century furniture, vintage Turkish rugs and -- oddly enough -- a flat screen television.
For more information about the estate sale, click here.