Overview

The legacy of Ron Lerch is underscored by the many people who called him a friend. My first encounter with Ron was at his Land Park home in the 1980s. My father, Brad Witherell, discovered a gold rush photo and the consensus from everyone was talk to Ron Lerch. Meeting Ron opened my eyes to a collector who didn’t just buy in the popular categories, he bought what interested him. I’ll never forget him telling us, “I like primitive 19th century California Art.” It’s a style overlooked by traditional collectors but Ron didn’t care. He was a maverick of sorts seeing the raw charm of an untrained artist. He was a free thinker, a kind man and a dedicated collector. When clearing out his massive library I had visions of Ron constantly ready so I asked his wife, Anita, if he was a ferocious reader and she succinctly, clarified it for me. “Ron was a ferocious buyer.” We hope you enjoy the sampling offered in this auction and find a memento or two to buy from this legendary collector.

Brian Witherell, President

BLW Enterprises, Inc.