Ep 5. Rocket Man

In "Rocket Man," the fifth episode of American Pickers season 12, Mike Wolfe and Frank Fritz embark on a trip to visit a man who has built a rocket-shaped house in Mississippi. The duo is excited to take a peek inside the unique home and see what kind of treasures they can uncover.

As they approach the rocket house, Mike and Frank can't help but marvel at the structure. Built in the 1970s, the house was a labor of love for its creator, who spent years designing and constructing it by hand. The rocket is three stories tall and features a living room, kitchen, and three bedrooms, all decorated in a retro style that harkens back to the house's heyday.

But while the house itself is impressive, the guys are more interested in what might be hiding inside it. Their host has promised them access to his collection of vintage toys and games, which he has been amassing for decades.

Inside the rocket house, Mike and Frank are like kids in a candy store. The collection is extensive and eclectic, featuring everything from vintage arcade games to old toy robots and space guns. Mike is particularly excited about a life-sized robot that he spots in one of the bedrooms, while Frank is drawn to an old pinball machine.

As they sift through the collection, the guys chat with their host about his life and how he became interested in collecting. They learn that he has always been fascinated by science fiction and space exploration, which is why he built the rocket house in the first place. He tells them about his experiences attending science fiction conventions and meeting some of the genre's biggest names.

Throughout the episode, Mike and Frank are impressed not just by the collection, but by the passion and enthusiasm that their host brings to his hobby. They're fascinated by the stories he tells and the memories he shares, and they're excited to help him make some extra cash by selling some of his items.

But not everything in the collection is for sale. When Mike spots a vintage action figure from his own childhood, he can't resist making an offer to buy it. But the host is reluctant to part with it, citing sentimental value.

Despite their disappointment, Mike and Frank continue to explore the collection and find some incredible items, including a rare tin toy that dates back to the 1930s and a vintage sign from a defunct amusement park.

As they prepare to leave, the guys reflect on their visit to the rocket house. They're impressed by the collection, but more than that, they're struck by the passion that their host has for his hobby. They're reminded that behind every collection is a person with a unique story to tell, and they feel grateful for the opportunity to meet and connect with so many interesting collectors on their journey.