With temperatures hovering at the 20 degree mark, promoter Greg Baecker began the procession of dealers onto the field of the Elephant’s Trunk Country Flea Market this past Sunday morning, March 11, admitting exhibitor after exhibitor. Filling about two-thirds of the spacious field with vendors, some estimates put the dealer count close to 200. Dealers and shoppers shrugged off the cold as they raced from one end of the field to the other. Sales were as brisk as the weather.
“They told me it would be in the 40s,” commented a chilled Baecker as he let the cars on the field, “Yeah,” came a response from someone standing close by, “but that won’t be until noon.” Actually, it came a lot earlier in the day, with temperatures climbing into the high 60s by noon.
The market traditionally opens the first week of April; however, warm conditions throughout the region and a dry field created an opportunity that pleased the manager, dealers and shoppers alike. “The field is in great shape,” commented Baecker, who will not allow vehicles onto it if it does not pass his inspection. “It’s quite a bit drier this year than it has been in past years.”
Dealers hit the field at 5 am, early buyers at 5:45 and a huge line of shoppers was on hand at 7 as the market officially opened to the public.
Weathervanes, early Steiff stuffed animals, decoys, dolls, carpets, bikes, cupboards, paintings and prints, redware and Rookwood and almost anything else you could imagine were seen somewhere on the field. Lots of people were making runs to the car with their arms loaded with smalls. There were lots of bags being carried about by hustling shoppers and carts were being used to haul large purchases. Massive items were stacked outside the entrance gates, such as a large country cupboard in a newer paint over the original blue, waiting for the new owners to finish up their rounds and collect their goods.
Some interesting paintings were seen around the field, including a Modernist portrait of a boy, some Frank Benson prints and some crazy contemporary oils by a Midwestern artist. Collectors of Roseville were pleased with the offering on the field, perhaps the most plentiful selection seen in years. Several crocks were sold, including a large jar with blue decoration of some sort, hidden from view and whisked off of the field before the sun rose. Carpets were also being perused by many in the crowd; one lady had purchased a shopping cart full and several others were noted missing during a second trip up and down the aisles.
The Elephant’s Trunk flea market, 490 Danbury Road (Route 7), will be open, barring foul weather, every Sunday through November. For further information, 508-265-9911 or check for notices at www.etflea.com .
