The Michigan Flywheelers Museum in South Haven is once again hosting its annual “Swap Meet and Flea Market” this upcoming weekend.
The yearly event, which originally started as a place for collectors to sell antique farm equipment parts, has since evolved and became more than just that. Museum President Patrick Ingalls said he never knows what to expect from vendors, and what will come in.
“A variety of material that comes in and we never know what people are going to bring,” Ingalls said.
This year the 26th annual fundraiser outdoor event will be held this Friday, June 7 and Saturday, June 8 from 8 am to 4 p.m. Over 100 vendors are expected at the event selling everything from antiques, apples, and Ingalls favorites, the old machinery.
“I like the old machinery, particularly windmills in my case, and belt-driven machinery.”
For those interested in selling, cost is $20 per vendor and includes both days. Vendor registration starts Thursday, June 6 at 8 a.m. Spaces are on a first come basis and there is no limit to the amount of space you take. Selling of firearms, weapons, fireworks, MFM logo items, political items (including Confederate merchandise) is not allowed. Motorized vehicles like dirt bikes and ATVs can be sold but not driven on the property. Vendors can camp on their spaces at no extra charge.
All proceeds from the events are used for operational expenses and education projects at the museum.
“Well, seeing it grow is one thing. It’s always nice to see the people that were there the year before and renew friendships.”
The Michigan Flywheelers Museum is located at 06285 68th Street in South Haven. It is a non-profit organization dedicated to the preservation of antique farm machinery and its history. It hosts one of the largest antique engine and tractor shows in the state every September. This year’s show will be held Thursday, Sept. 5 through Sunday, Sept. 8.
More information is available at 269-639-2010, www.michiganflywheelers.org, or Facebook.
