Hit the road! Windows Media: 28k or 56k Real: 28k or 56k

Web posted on: Friday, August 07, 1998 3:42:40 PM

LOS ANGELES (CNN) -- They looked a bit like refugees, these thousands of people who recently converged upon the Los Angeles Convention Center, hauling their meager belongings, bags and suitcases alongside. But take a closer look and you'd realize they carried with them the family jewels -- or at least, that's what they hoped.

If you've ever wondered what that old family heirloom sitting in your garage, under your kitchen sink or on the hearth as an impromptu firewood holder was worth, PBS can help. Its "Antiques Roadshow," now in its second season, is traveling the United States with host Chris Jussel and a passel of appraisers who can put a dollar value on your aged possessions.

"It sort of has that lottery feel," appraiser David McCarron explained. "You never know what you might have." CNN's Gloria Hillard made the "Antiques Roadshow" rounds to take a look.