To Market, To Market...

October 11, 2012

Twice a year, I travel, preferably in a truck or van, with friends to White Cloud and Sparks, KS. Why you ask? O, dear reader, there is treasure to be found!

Each spring and fall, two small towns become outdoor flea markets, which attract buyers, sellers, dealers, collectors, junkers, gawkers, funnel cake makers, and treasure hunters. The towns of White Cloud and Sparks are about 11 miles apart, and are mostly ghost towns the rest of the year.

White Cloud is located on the Missouri River where steamships once docked. Vendors set up along the main street and inside storefronts that are open only for those long weekend events. Sparks boasted of more than 500 dealers this fall, in addition to the 16 food vendors.

Check their website for more information and a photo gallery. Then, prepare yourself for the spring markets at MCPL. For inspiration, start with Mary Randolph Carter’s books, including For the Love of  Old and Kitchen Junk.

For serious collecting and bargaining, check out the many antiques and collectables titles starting in the 745.1 section at your nearby branch. Watch next month for Part 2 of this blog, "Top Ten Treasure Hunting Tips."

Anna P.
Raytown Branch