FLEA MARKET WEEKEND

Twice a year, on the first weekend in May and October, the Hamilton County Historical Bottle Club sponsors a flea market in McLeansboro that brings all sorts of visitors and vendors together to buy, sell, and trade. This weekend’s flea market is being held at the fairgrounds just west of town instead of at the East Side Grade School, and I think it was a change for the better, both for the vendors who had a chance to spread out, and for the visitors who had plenty of room to maneuver too. Still I’m going to miss the opportunity to go inside my old grade school where I went through 6th, 7th, and 8th grade.

This afternoon I made my way past the various booths selling everything from antiques to glassware to clothing to tools to books and baseball cards, and everything in between. After purchasing a few trinkets for my niece and nephew,  I tried talking my uncle into purchasing a small cannon for his front yard, but I guess he didn’t want to start a neighborhood arms race, so we left it for the next adventurous soul to buy. I asked a couple vendors about traffic and they told me this morning was very brisk and seemed pleased with their sales figures so far.

Events like the flea market, and other events throughout the year, give townsfolk a chance to get out and mingle together as well as bring in much needed money to the county.  Why not join me in thanking The Hamilton County Historical  Bottle Club for putting this event on and for the good work they do, such as contributing to charities, all throughout the year.

After browsing the flea market I was given a quick tour of the horse barn at the fairgrounds by Bill McMahon, seen here posing with his brother’s race horse.