CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Radio enthusiasts and longtime fans of the late and beloved Charleston DJ Charlie Cooper have a rare and unique opportunity to own a piece of the legend.
Cooper died in July after spending much of his career in Charleston radio and more widely as a voice-actor for commercials. Joe R. Pyle Auctions has been commissioned to sell off the tools of Charlie’s trade. The collection includes some remarkable antiques.
“We’re really honored. I’ve had a chance to talk to some individuals who knew him and it’s really quite a collection,” said Blake Shamblin with Joe R. Pyle Auctions.
The items feature unique and rare items from the radio industry like antique microphones and an old time Coke machine to modern broadcasting and stage show equipment with amps, cords, and other assorted stage and studio gear.
“We’re just very honored to sell his property. The local legend he was and all of the interesting items available this doesn’t happen every day. We sell personal property all the time, but this is a very unique opportunity,” Shamblin said.
The auction runs through October 21st. Bids can be placed on line. Shamblin said they work like any on-line auction in which you can set a maximum amount you’re willing to spend and the computer will bid up to that level for you. You can also continue to revisit the items and make bids as you go. The proxy auction makes the items available to bidders nationwide.
Joe R. Pyle will also be auctioning off the Admix Studios building in Charleston as well which housed Cooper’s longtime recording operation.