Ottawa’s Harvey Glatt Estate Sale Celebrates Music Legacy

A notable estate sale in Ottawa provided residents with a unique opportunity to acquire pieces of the musical legacy of the late Harvey Glatt. The event unfolded as his family offered items from their home, which has long been a significant part of the local music culture. Glatt, who passed away on August 20, 2023, at the age of 91, left behind a rich history intertwined with the city’s vibrant music scene.

The estate sale attracted a diverse crowd eager to connect with a piece of Ottawa’s heritage. Phillipe Gagne, one of the early attendees, expressed his excitement. “It’s nice. It feels like I’m in touch with my city, you know? And that I own a piece of the tapestry of the city,” he noted. Gagne arrived hours before the sale commenced and was thrilled to purchase a jacket featuring the words “Radio – Making Waves” on the back. “I feel lucky,” he added, reflecting on the unique items available.

Harvey Glatt was a pivotal figure in Ottawa’s music landscape. He opened Treble Clef, the city’s first standalone music store, which expanded into a chain of 15 locations. His obituary highlights his role in booking major artists, including Bob Dylan‘s first performance in Ottawa. Moreover, he was a silent partner at Cafe Le Hibou, an iconic venue that hosted numerous celebrated musicians. In 1977, Glatt launched Chez 106.1, a radio station that further solidified his impact on the local music scene.

The estate sale featured a myriad of intriguing items, including signed posters from renowned artists such as Cream, Roy Orbison, and Bruce Cockburn. A large signed poster from Cockburn, inscribed with a personal note thanking Harvey and Louise Glatt for their support, caught the attention of many visitors. “It’s amazing, you can tell they’ve had such a rich life,” remarked Annie Stranberg, who was attending her first estate sale.

Many attendees shared a sense of pride in their local music history. Mira Ellefi, another visitor, stated, “I think we have a great music scene here. To have the opportunity to have a closer look into it through Harvey Glatt’s world is really awesome.” The estate sale spanned two days, showcasing over 1,000 pieces and drawing hundreds of people eager to explore the Glatt family’s rich legacy.

The popularity of estate sales has surged, according to Marley Barzen, owner of Estates by Marlene, which managed the sale. “I think just the revolution of social media has made estate sales much more popular,” she explained. Barzen highlighted a growing trend among younger, environmentally conscious consumers who are increasingly drawn to second-hand shopping.

Attendees like Merle Adam attended the sale to honor the Glatts, stating, “They brought the world into their home. All of it.” Adam, who had visited the Glatt residence before, expressed admiration for their contributions to the community.

Musician Maddi Stratis queued up early for her first estate sale, eager to find mid-century modern furniture. She successfully obtained a set of plates that she felt created a special connection to the city. “To bring something like this home… I’m never going to get rid of them,” she said.

The estate sale not only served as a tribute to a beloved figure in Ottawa’s music history but also highlighted the growing appreciation for local heritage among residents. Harvey Glatt’s legacy continues to resonate within the community, celebrated through the stories and items that have now found new homes.