Mark E. Sackett, a self-proclaimed 'king of his own castle', is the owner of a vast collection of vintage advertisements and ephemera, housed in the Pressroom and Mercantile in San Francisco's SoMa district. His collection, which has grown to over 15 million pieces, includes everything from bottle labels to rubber bands, and even a 1920s Rice Krispies advertisement print. Sackett's passion for collecting began at a young age, inspired by miniature beer bottle salt-and-pepper shakers at his grandfather's house. He joined the Beer Can Collectors of America (BCCA) at 12, despite not being old enough to drink, and went on to become a successful graphic designer and art director. In 2004, he purchased the building where Pressroom and Mercantile is now located, a former printing plant owned by William Randolph Hearst. The store, which is open seven days a week, has attracted dedicated patrons, including rapper Snoop Dogg, who is also a physical ephemera collector. Sackett's collection is a testament to his meticulous curation and support from his parents, who encouraged his 'dumb' hobbies. While he no longer collects much, he occasionally can't resist a beautiful piece, like an atlas cover he recently purchased. His collection is a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a unique perspective on the history of printing and advertising, and the personal stories of the people who created and collected these items. It also highlights the intersection of personal interests, family support, and the unexpected connections that can be made through collecting.
