Have you ever been to Shipshewana, Indiana, the heart of Northern-Indiana's Amish country, and home to the famous Shipshewana Flea Market? I've had the pleasure of going twice and it is an experience like no other. You can find old, new, borrowed, trash, treasures, junque, antiques, collectibles, and crafts. If you're looking for 'it' and cannot find 'it' at the Shipshewana Flea Market, then 'it' probably doesn't exist.
The Market is an example of extreme organization. I do not know how long it takes the individual to set up his or her wares for sale, but the time and effort must be considerable. I assume that these people do this on a regular basis so they must have a routine, plus very large vehicles in which to haul the sale items, some of which are quite large.....others are small but numerous in number. I remember one vendor that was selling jack knives - hundreds, perhaps thousands of them -all either laid out neatly on tables, or in locked display cases. Without knowing for certain, I would imagine that the 'shinkage' (retail-speak for theft) percentage must be rather high, considering the number of items for sale, out in the open, and the crush of humanity that sifts through the merchandise.
Yes, the Shipshewana Flea Market is a destination that everyone should realize at least one time in their lives. Just for the thrill, just to be able to say, "I've been there." and....for the food. The restaurants are many in number and they all offer splendid feasts. Shipshewana is not a place to expect to adhere to one's weight-loss program. You can also purchase world-class-quality popcorn in the Shipshewana area. The name 'Yoder' is synonymous in the Shipshewana area for good.....anything.....but Yoder popcorn is a 'must' in the take-home category.
And, so, in this season of Holly Daze, where our bodies and brains are working overtime with effort and creativity, I have just one pressing question: Do they sell fleas at a flea market?
Just wonderin'.
Ancora imparo
