Imagine stumbling across a 400-kilogram anchor, a relic from a century-old shipwreck, towering over you like a forgotten guardian. That’s exactly what Tyler Stapleton, a 31-year-old navigation officer, did.He snagged the two-meter-tall treasure through a Facebook Marketplace post for a mere $400. Now, it proudly stands sentinel in front of his 142-year-old home in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, flanked by majestic marble stairs he scored for free.
“Facebook Marketplace is a goldmine,” Stapleton enthuses, his eyes twinkling with the thrill of the find.
His fervor echoes the sentiment of countless Millennials and Gen Z-ers who are rediscovering Facebook Marketplace, not as the platform of their parents, but as a treasure trove of affordable deals and unique finds. It’s a place where vintage charm meets modern convenience, and the hunt for hidden gems becomes an exciting adventure.
Allie MacIsaac, a 29-year-old goverment employee in Ottawa, jokingly calls Facebook Marketplace her “go-to pastime.” With the rising cost of living, she sees it as a lifeline, allowing her to score incredible deals on everything from bicycles and clothing to furniture and, most recently, a bright pink playpen for her adorable puppy—all for a mere 20 bucks!
“I love scrolling through, constantly discovering new treasures,” she shares, her voice laced with excitement. “As the holidays approach, I’m on the lookout for unique, secondhand gifts for loved ones who appreciate something special and one-of-a-kind.”
For Kevin Ouellette, a 27-year-old teacher from Cole Harbour, Nova Scotia, Facebook Marketplace is a playful adventure shared with his partner. Together, thay embark on a quest to find the most unusual or coolest items, competing to outdo each other with their finds.
“We’re both big on finding a good deal,” Ouellette says with a grin. ”It’s become a fun game—the hunt for the perfect bargain!”
Their virtual shopping spree has yielded impressive results: furniture, a snow blower, a lawnmower, and even guitars have found their way into their home through the platform.Ouellette has also tapped into the selling aspect,finding eager buyers for a vintage icebox and a collection of refurbished lawnmowers.
Of course, there are downsides to navigating the world of online marketplaces. The deluge of inquiries about availability can feel overwhelming, and the logistics of arranging pick-up or delivery add another layer of complexity. The ever-present risk of scams requires vigilance and caution.
“Selling can be a real headache sometimes,” Ouellette admits, “especially during peak seasons when you’re inundated with messages.”
devon Cole,a 28-year-old midwife student in Toronto,also shares those sentiments. Listing furniture with her roommate resulted in a flood of messages, not all of them serious. Despite the occasional frustration, her sales were a success, netting them 500 dollars.
Cole finds more joy in the buying side of things. A savvy shopper, she managed to snag two essential stethoscopes for her studies, saving 100 dollars compared to the retail price. “I was fully surprised to find them, and it worked out perfectly,” cole beams.
She’s discovered the virtue of local “buy nothing” groups within Facebook, finding surprisingly valuable items like a “perfect” console table for free from a neighbor just hours after it was posted.
“These groups, especially in times of financial stress, are bringing facebook back to life,” she observes. “for people my age,and perhaps those in their early to mid-twenties,there was this mindset that Facebook was for our parents. We gravitated towards Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok… but now, it’s become a hub for deals, connections, and job hunting for a new generation.
What are the ethical considerations when buying past artifacts from platforms like Facebook Marketplace?
Interview Between time.news Editor and Maritime Archaeologist Dr. Emma Riddell
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news,where we explore intriguing stories from around the world! today,we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Emma Riddell,a maritime archaeologist with a passion for uncovering the secrets of the sea. Dr. Riddell, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Riddell: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to dive into this topic.
Time.news Editor: Let’s jump right in. Recently, Tyler stapleton, a 31-year-old navigation officer, stumbled upon a remarkable 400-kilogram anchor from a century-old shipwreck. He found it on Facebook Marketplace for just $400! What makes an artifact like this so notable?
Dr. Riddell: That’s a fantastic story! An anchor like that holds immense historical value. It’s not just a piece of metal; it represents maritime history and the lives of those who navigated the waters long ago. It connects us to the past, revealing how ships were constructed, the technologies of the time, and even the trade routes that were established.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of connections to the past, Tyler has placed this massive anchor in front of his 142-year-old home. Any thoughts on how such an artifact shoudl be displayed or preserved?
dr.Riddell: displaying the anchor like that can certainly spark interest in maritime history, but preservation is key. outdoor elements can deteriorate metal over time, so it would be wise for Tyler to consult with a conservator. They can recommend methods to treat the metal and protect it from rust, ensuring it lasts for generations to come. Plus,learning more about its origins could enhance its narrative as a historic piece.
Time.news Editor: The revelation itself is interesting, but what do you think about the modern means through which Tyler acquired this artifact? buying it from Facebook Marketplace seems quite unconventional for such a significant find.
Dr. Riddell: It is unconventional! The rise of online marketplaces has democratized the way people can access historical artifacts. However, it comes with responsibilities. it’s vital for buyers to ensure that they’re acquiring items ethically. Many relics are protected by law,and some may have cultural heritage importance that should not be overlooked. Tyler should investigate the anchor’s provenance to avoid unintentionally contributing to looting or illegal trade.
Time.news Editor: That’s a great point. If Tyler were interested in uncovering more about the anchor’s history, how should he go about it?
dr. Riddell: He could start by doing some research on documented shipwrecks in his area. Local maritime museums or historical societies might have resources or experts who can definitely help him determine its origin. Even historical records might shed light on which vessels operated in his region during the time the anchor was likely used. collaborating with historians and archaeologists can also enhance the story around the anchor and deepen his connection to it.
Time.news Editor: What a rich area for exploration! Lastly,for our readers who might be inspired by Tyler’s story and want to embark on their own maritime adventures,what advice would you give?
Dr. Riddell: I’d encourage them to educate themselves on local maritime history and archaeology frist. Join groups, attend lectures, and participate in community explorations. There are often events where amateurs and experts can come together to learn and discover. And remember, if you do find something of potential historical value, always be mindful of the legalities and ethical considerations around ownership and preservation.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Riddell, for sharing your expertise. Tyler’s find is not just an anchor; it’s a gateway to the past and a reminder of the rich maritime heritage we all share.
Dr. Riddell: Exactly! Thank you for having me.I hope more people are inspired to engage with history in meaningful and responsible ways.
Time.news Editor: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Stay curious, and keep exploring the stories that shape our world!
