Mysterious item was donated to Michigan library 22 years ago — and no one knows what it is

For years, there has been an ongoing conversation piece at White Pigeon Township Library.

An item was donated to the library and no one seems to know what it is.

The object was given sometime prior to 1998, when Perri Saunders began working there.

A note with the piece says it was used in a period of the 1880s and "donated by Miss Loraine Stickel."

Not even the folks at "Antiques Roadshow" could say what it is, said library board trustee Jim Marks. Saunders had taken it to “Roadshow” about 2 1/2 years ago in Indianapolis, Marks said.

"They really didn’t have a clue about it," Saunders said. "It’s just been a bit of a mystery."

Some have guessed it’s a measuring device or a sample of old bed springs.

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"It’s lovingly called 'the springy thing' around here," Saunders said.

She and Marks agreed a lot of people have looked at the item and taken interest in it, but none have come up with an answer.

Anyone with an idea can stop at the library or call 269-483-7409. Saunders and Marks have a contest in the works. The person who comes up with the best answer will receive a gift certificate to a White Pigeon restaurant. A committee will decide the best answer at the library’s Feb. 24 board meeting.