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Wednesday, Sep. 30, 2009

Historic preservation a real deal

Let me go on record as saying I am not in the market to purchase an 1892 photograph from the Bell Telephone and Telegraph conference in Asheville, N.C.

If I was, though, I know where to find it. It’s somewhere in the piles of stuff waiting to be sold at the annual Historic Macon Flea Market on Oct. 10.

Of course, I could be bluffing. I might actually want that 19th-century photograph of mustachioed men I don’t even know. I may arrive early to secure a spot before the doors open at 8 a.m.

Or maybe I will be holding out for that 1946 Miller High School class ring. Or fight someone for that United States Fleet Marine Forces coat from World War II.

I dropped by last week to preview some of the goods. It never hurts to do a little advance scouting. There’s usually something for everyone at these annual flea markets, which have been a tradition for the past 32 years.

This year will be no exception, with one noticeable difference. The event is no longer being held in the Long Building at Central City Park. The one-day flea market has a new home at 668 Shurling Drive.

Some of you old-timers will remember that’s where the old S&H Green Stamp store was located. (OK, I should be careful about calling you “old-timers.” Still, we are talking about raising money for preservation efforts in our historic city. And we all need preservation, don’t we?)

For those of you who are pre-green stamp days, it’s located at the far end of the Rose’s shopping center at the corner of Shurling Drive and Gray Highway. It’s near the police precinct, so just look for the cars.

I’ve always been a huge fan of the annual Friends of the Library Old Book Sales every February. I often refer to them as Macon’s largest literary yard sales.

So I wasn’t surprised to see many of the same volunteers who work so tirelessly for the Friends of the Library giving their time and energy to elevate the Historic Macon fundraiser to the same level of success.

They have been rushing around like busy bees ... er, fleas.

No, not all of the items for sale are vintage. You will find an array of furniture, toys, building supplies, books, records, jewelry, artwork, aprons and linens.

There are scarves, purses, luggage, ornaments, teapots, figurines and iron skillets. Just about everything — including the kitchen sink.

There is even a used ... pardon me, previously owned Mercedes for sale. Since it won’t fit through the doors, they keep it parked outside.

Of course, the unique and unusual are what make it interesting and entertaining. It could be a rare artifact or one-of-a-kind find. Or just something you want and need.

I spotted a sterling silver spoon from Camp Wheeler and some 1938 issues of the Lanier High School newspaper, the Poet Leader.

With a little imagination — batteries not included — you could come up with all the components for your very own time machine.

There will be a preview party Oct. 9 for Historic Macon members and prospective members.

Otherwise, you must wait until the doors swing open at 8 a.m. Oct. 10. The sale ends at 1 p.m.

Most items are a real steal. But, trust me. Even though the police station is a few doors down, you’re not going to get arrested.