If you are an experienced treasure hunter you will already have these dates on your calendar, but should you be new to bargain hunting then listen up, because “The Greatest Spectacle in Junking” is just days away. The 800 mile Historic National Road (US 40) Yard Sale begins at dawn on Wednesday, June 2 and runs until dusk on Sunday, June 6. As they have for the past 17 years, the residents of small towns from Maryland to Missouri are gearing up for what the show promoters promise to be the biggest and best sale ever. The Pandemic of 2020 reduced last year’s show to a fraction of its size, so expect the vendors to be well stocked and ready to deal!
Just as the Old National Road drew people closer together when it was built in the early 1800s, this event brings together treasure hunters from across the country. When I last attended in 2019 I found myself shopping at a table with a school teacher from New Jersey, a retired fireman from Ohio and a family who was back for their fourth year from right here in Indy. As you travel this route it is easy to see why it is affectionately referred to as “The Main Street of America.” People are friendly, conversation flows and no matter where you stop, it somehow feels like home.
To those of you going for the first time I want to share a couple of my road trip tips. I always take snack food and water (these are available along the route but lines are long and water can run up to $4 a bottle), an extra pair of comfortable shoes and toilet paper. Toilet paper? Yes, toilet paper! With the tens of thousands of people traveling this route over the five day run of the sale it is not uncommon for rest stops and gas stations to run out. Trust me, you be glad you packed a couple of rolls. A wrist purse or fanny pack is a great way to carry your cash while scouting roadside sales and when the temperatures climb past 90, nothing feels better than a cold washcloth. I chill these in the freezer the night before and drop them into a ziplock bag right before leaving the house.
While this makes a nice day trip, many choose to go for two days or more. Lodging along US 40 ranges from your basic Holiday Inn Express accommodations to rustic lodges, B&B’s, campgrounds and, for the more adventurous, some kitschy little motels. Check ahead as they fill up fast! For updated information, local points of interest along the route, lodging, food and rest areas visit www.facebook.com/nationalroadyardsaleUS40.
Antiques, vintage items, architectural pieces, garden iron, furniture of all styles and household items are but a few of the items offered this year. In addition you will have the opportunity to purchase the work of Hoosier artisans and craftsmen, including leather belts and wallets, one-of-a-kind hand made jewelry, bead work and handcrafted wooden items ranging from beautiful boxes and pipes to benches and other small furniture. Remember to save some money because you will want to take advantage of the locally made soaps, candles, lotions, candy and delicious produce that are featured at the small town festivals you will encounter along the way.
Well, there you have it! A great summer getaway, small town hospitality at its best, and bargains galore. Hope to see you there! Until next time .. . Linda
Linda Kennett is a professional liquidation consultant specializing in down-sizing for seniors and may be reached at 317-258-7835 or lkennett@indy.rr.com