: "There was the threat of rain, but it did not happen," was the
first comment made by Corinne Burke about her annual outdoor
Ridgefield Antiques Market on Saturday, June 5. This event, with
90 exhibitors, was on the grounds of the Community Center at 316
Main Street.
Years ago, when this show was under the management of the late
Russell Carrell, it was staged on the playing fields below the
Community Center. Old timers will remember the rain one Saturday
that caused many of the dealer's vans and station wagons to get
stuck in the mud. A tow truck worked well into the evening to
free all of the exhibitors. From that time forward the market was
moved to higher ground.
Today the dealers line up in a parking lot away from the
Community Center. Many of the exhibitors are in line the night
before, sleeping in nearby motels, at the homes of friends in the
area, or in with the merchandise. The vans and trucks move onto the
center's grounds at 6 am and early buying starts at 7 pm. Only
about 25 people showed for this "first look," while close to 700
visitors shopped the show from 10 am to 4 pm.
"I received reports from some of the dealers that furniture was
selling as well as smalls, and one person sold five pieces,
taking home only a small stand," Corinne said. She noted that
this is not a show with top of the line exhibitors, "but our
dealers are good middle range and this show is a perfect vehicle
for them."
One thing is certain, the show will be happening again next year
on the first Saturday in June. "We are totally dependant on the
weather, but we will be there rain of shine," Corinne said.
