Small Business Spotlight: Logan Antique Mall
If you love a good treasure hunt or just enjoy a stroll down memory lane, Logan Antique Mall is a perfect place to visit during your time in the Hocking Hills. In fact, it has so much to offer for nearly everyone it’s worth the drive from across town or across the state.
A fixture in Logan since 1999, they have a dedicated following of customers and draw in new ones every day. Owner Eleanor Bowlby says that people often find pieces they can connect with and things that remind them of their own childhood. “True antiques are hard to sell. Our most popular items are twenty years old or more. People like what reminds them of their childhood, of their grandma’s house, of things that make them feel good,” Eleanor explained.
She said that trends in vintage items are sometimes surprising and often come and go. “Lps and books are in high demand right now and so is glassware that you can use. They are looking for Anchor Hocking and Pyrex but also for things like uranium glass which you obviously can’t use. Longaberger is coming back too. People comment that are our prices are very good so that helps us to stay competitive and to move a lot of items out the door.”
Other things that are popular right now include miniatures, knick knacks, Precious Moments figurines, handmade items and coins. She said they sell a lot of coins especially pennies and silver dollars.
As consumers become frustrated with cheaply made items that don’t last, Eleanor said many are looking for items of quality that will last longer with daily use.
While she welcomes all customers, she especially enjoys selling to kids. “It’s fun to see little kids excited about something. Sometimes you see parents dragging their kids through the front door and, by the time they are leaving, they’re dragging them back out because they found stuff they loved. And now, we’re seeing those little kids all grown up and bringing their kids with them. It really is rewarding to see young people discover old things that are new to them.”
Eleanor, an admitted people person, began working here in 2004 and took over the business in 2013. “I just really enjoy being around people and talking to them. A lot of them come from other places and I always tell people to have a safe trip home. I think that makes people feel good, that little kind remark.”
She talks a lot about appreciation for the people who make her business possible including the vendors and the customers. “Without these people, I wouldn’t have anything. I just try to treat people the way I like to be treated,” she said.
Now customers have more ways to shop with Eleanor as she has taken over space next door, to open Market Place by Thomas & Rae. Here shoppers will find close to thirty vendors plus another 128 vendors in the adjacent craft mall. The business is named for her dad and the rows inside are named for her kids. In addition to crafts, vintage and other items, this space will soon feature a coffee shop as well.
The coffee shop will specialize in a number of coffee drinks, teas, lemonade, refreshers, and locally baked pastries and cookies to enjoy on the go or on a break from shopping.
Find the Logan Antique Mall and Market Place by Thomas & Rae at 12795 St. Rt. 664 S. in Logan. They are located in a complex shared by the Old Dutch Restaurant, Weaver’s Market, the Hocking Hills Canoe Livery, and Adventure Golf at Rempel’s Grove making this area a destination for indoor and outdoor fun. Follow the antique mall on Facebook for hours, product updates and other information.