Hidden Treasures: New Jersey Homeowners Find Wall Full of Rum Bottles
Moving into a new home is always an exciting adventure, filled with the anticipation of discovering hidden gems or secrets left behind by the previous owner. For Cathy and Roy Aukamp, a New Jersey couple, their recent home purchase led to an unexpected and intriguing discovery.
While repairing their flooded basement, they stumbled upon a wall that held a secret from the past— a collection of empty rum bottles that revealed a touching story of struggle and triumph.
The Daily Mail reports that the Aukamps’ journey into the past started with a flooded basement and ended with a heartwarming revelation about the previous homeowner’s battle with addiction and eventual sobriety.
- The Discovery
It all began when Cathy and Roy Aukamp decided to tackle the task of fixing up their flooded basement shortly after moving into their new home. Little did they know that beneath the layers of damp insulation and crumbling drywall, they would uncover a remarkable piece of history. As they removed a section of the basement wall, a surprise awaited them—dozens of empty rum bottles neatly arranged within the wall’s hidden cavity.
- The Origin of the Bottles
Intrigued by their find, Cathy and Roy Aukamp began to piece together the puzzle of these hidden bottles. After some investigation and talking to neighbors, they learned that the original homeowner had once struggled with alcohol addiction. The bottles, it turned out, were his way of concealing his habit, hidden away within the very walls of the house he had called home.
- The Emotional Journey
Cathy and Roy’s discovery didn’t just unearth a hidden cache of rum bottles; it revealed a powerful story of personal struggle and redemption. The previous homeowner, now known to be three years sober, had used this unique method to keep his addiction hidden from his family and himself. It was a testament to the lengths people go to in their battle against addiction.
The Aukamps were deeply moved by this revelation. Instead of viewing the discovery as a troubling reminder of the past, they saw it as an opportunity to celebrate the previous owner’s strength and determination. They felt a newfound sense of connection to the house and the person who had once called it home.
- The Power of Sobriety
This story of hidden rum bottles resonates with many individuals and families who have faced the challenges of addiction. It serves as a reminder that addiction can touch anyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. However, it also highlights the incredible power of sobriety and the strength of the human spirit in overcoming adversity.
The Aukamps’ discovery of a wall filled with rum bottles in their new New Jersey home is a poignant reminder that every house has its own unique history waiting to be uncovered. It’s a story of hidden struggles, personal triumph, and the enduring power of sobriety.
This heartwarming tale serves as a reminder that we should approach our homes with curiosity and empathy, for they may hold more than just walls and foundations—they may hold stories of hope and resilience. Cathy and Roy Aukamp’s journey into their home’s past is a testament to the idea that every place we call home has a story to tell if we are willing to listen.
13 Unique Bar Glasses You Definitely Want For Your Home
1) Vintage MLB Ballpark Glasses
I don’t know about you, but I absolutely love sports ware. And nothing goes better together than drinks and sports. These vintage MLB ballpark glasses are incredible. Featuring ballparks like Dodgers Stadium, Shea Stadium, Wrigley Field and many others.
2) National Parks Glassware
How cool is this one?! If you’re a fan of our National Parks these glasses are so beautiful and would look like such a unique addition to any at-home bar.
3) Guitar Pint Glasses
Music lovers, we know this one is perfect for you. This set of 4 guitar pint glasses would be the perfect way to enjoy a cold beer or cocktail while listening to some incredible vinyl right?
5) Mushroom Cocktail Glasses
I’m already imagining all of the cool cocktails you could make in these glasses. The one featured with the purple liquor is automatically super inspiring.
6) MLB Park Glasses
If you loved the MLB Vintage park glasses you are sure to love these too! This features more of the current ballparks. So if you have a favorite team and a favorite park you can grab a set of them. Make the whole bar more like a “sports” bar.
7) Prohibition Whiskey Glasses
It feels very on brand, right? It is really cool though because it does feature the 18th amendment which was what pushed the US into the prohibition era. You can “cheers” to progress with these whiskey glasses.
8) Skeleton Wine Glass
Time for some Boo-ze… I really hope you enjoyed that joke, but even if you didn’t these are very cool for Halloween or if you’re just someone who likes “spooky” décor/items why not have some fun with these skeleton wine glasses?
9) Sugar Skull Glasses
And speaking of spooky and skeletons, how about some sugar skulls? Thes sugar skull tumbler glasses are awesome looking. If you’re looking for something out of the ordinary these are definitely the hot ticket item.
10) City Skyline Beer Glasses
From East Coast to West Coast these beer glasses are cool. You can select the city of your choice from places like Boston, L.A., Atlanta, and more, and turn your bar into a celebration for your favorite city.
11) Golf Shot Glass Game
For all of you golf lovers, this brings the “19th hole” into your home. It’s a fun little shot game that allows you to play a very mini, mini putt-putt course.
12) Personalized Retro Gamer Glasses
How cool are these? The 8-bit retro-style gaming graphics are great for folks who love gaming. You can choose your personalization and the number of glasses you get as well.
13) Playing Card Rocks Glasses
While you’re gathered around the card table for poker or whatever other card game you are playing, these rock glasses would be fun. The glasses feature all of the standard suits.
Please note that items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time we published this list. Have an idea for a fun theme for a gift idea list you’d like us to create? Drop us a line at shopping@bbgi.com.
