Summer Antiquing Centers on Sandwich
Posted by Laura Nelson on June 21, 2010
Bargain hunters and antique collectors are sure to visit Sandwich during the summer season. It seems to be the center of the Antique Universe, with shows, malls, shops and boutiques galore. Sandwich, about 30 miles west of St. Charles, is home to the oldest continuing county fair in Illinois. The Sandwich Fair has been held every year since 1889.
The monthly Sandwich Antiques Market is held at the park-like Sandwich Fairgrounds every month from April through October. Crafts, flea market items, garage sales and business booths are featured in the West Field, while The East Field highlights antiques and collectibles from the 19th and 20th centuries. To learn more, call (815)786-3337.
Sandwich Antiques Mart is the oldest mall in Sandwich. Specializing in elegant to primitive antiques and collectibles, dealers in the mall are proud of offering outstanding customer service. Mall owner Sharon Rogers is celebrating 21 years in business this season. The multi-dealer mall is at 2300 E. Rte 34 (just east of Sandwich). Reach her at (815) 786-6122. Check the ad in this issue for a 15% discount offer.
Farmer’s Daughter Antiques is a tidy collection of five specialty vendors. Located in a charming house in the heart of Sandwich, the specialty is primitive country home decor. There are hand-crafted textiles, candles, wood furniture, and accessories. Johnston Benchworks custom upholstered furniture is one of the signature offerings. See the ad in this issue for a 10% discount offer. Farmer’s Daughter Antiques is at 303 S. Main St., (815) 786-6370.
Olde Timers Antique Centre is an expansive mall in historic downtown Sandwich featuring more than 100 vendors. It is located at 131 Church St. (Rte. 34), (815) 786-6430.
While the sign on the exterior says Crystal House, under the tin ceiling inside is an eclectic collection of original artwork, primitive African art pieces, textured glass coasters, keepsake boxes and more. The ambiance of the relocated shop in Downers Grove is that of a mini art museum, says Chaz Nieponski, co-owner of Chazerly Designs, Inc., which is the parent company for the Crystal House art galleries.
Officially incorporated in 1993, Volo now boasts a 30 acre antique theme park that is a “Must See” destination for car collectors and antique buffs. Historic Volo Country Village is the center of activity for the town, hosting thousands of visitors each year.
See the actual 18 wheeler driven by Heath Ledger as “The Joker.” (It’s the only semi truck and trailer in existence.) See also cars driven by Harrison Ford as Indiana Jones; Herbies driven by Lindsey Lohan in Herbie: Fully Loaded, and from Disney on Ice; and a taxi that chauffered Brad Pitt in an Oscar-winning movie. Visit the Spring Car Corral and Car Show over the Memorial Day weekend, May 29-31. There will be more than 500 cars on display, including hot rods, muscle cars, military vehicles, movie cars and more. Call (815) 385-3644 and see www.volocars.com. Five shopping malls feature antiques, gifts and collectibles.
Comic book fans take note. Special guest appearances by some top artists and authors will be featured at the Comic Book, Toy & Pop Culture Show at the DuPage County Fairgrounds on Saturday, March 20. The event will have Golden, Silver and Bronze-age comics and collectible toys of all kinds. The show is held in conjunction with the monthly Zurko Antique & Collectibles Show, at the same time and place.
You can have a charming and romantic Victorian Valentine delivered by mail to your honey without even licking a stamp.
For Valentine’s Day, choose from ten authentic vintage images. The charge is just $2.95 for delivery anywhere in the U.S., and $3.95 each for a card sent anywhere in the world outside the U.S. Payment is by credit card or PayPal.
Glen Ellyn’s Treasure House on Pennsylvania Avenue is far more than just a resale shop. It is a fundraising center for Metropolitan Family Services, which provides a host of benefits to local needy families. The funds raised support services such as counseling and mental health, child and youth development, legal aid assistance, violence prevention, and community development.
“We were founded by volunteers more than fifty years ago, and are still run by volunteers,” says Treasure House manager Tillie Thorpe. Thorpe is one of four paid staff, heading up a force of more than one hundred volunteers monthly who man the shop. “All the money raised by Treasure House stays right in DuPage County,” says Thorpe. “So, people can be assured their donations benefit those in their communities.”
Donations are eclectic, according to Thorpe. There’s a wide assortment of apparel, plus an outstanding selection of home accessories. Shelving sparkles with crystal, china and silver items. Plus, seasonal decorations, toys and furniture pieces are always in stock. “I encourage people to donate things that they would purchase, and not to bring remnants from garage sales,” says Thorpe. “The quality of the merchandise is stunning.”
