Scratch your American Pickers itch with a trip to the largest antique store in the Midwest, the Columbus Antique Mall. Located in Columbus, Wisconsin, this cannery-turned-treasure-trove boasts 78,000 square feet of historic relics, quirky collectables, secondhand furniture, and decor that screams midwest vintage heaven.
Before the impressive collection came to be, the building was owned by the Columbus Canning Company. Starting in 1900 and through 1946, they packed vegetables like peas, corn, and tomatoes, and even squash like pumpkin.
In later years, they began specializing exclusively in canned peas and would grow significantly to become a packing powerhouse throughout the Midwest. The company had branches in three other Wisconsin cities as well as Indiana and Kansas. In 1946, they merged with Stokely Van Camp Inc. and operated until its closure in 1977.
Fast forward six years to 1983, when the building would be turned into Columbus Antique Mall. For more than 40 years now, they’ve been welcoming shoppers (and your grandma’s porcelain plate collection) to their three sprawling stories of whimsy wonder.
From desk drawers that could’ve held the first draft of the Declaration of Independence to copies of magazines from the 70’s to farming equipment that stands the test of time, if you can’t find something worth buying, you’re doing it wrong (or just have phenomenal self-control).
Upstairs, downstairs, around corners, and through their 24 rooms are over 200 vendors and 440 dealer booths. Yes, maps are available. Floors one and two consist of smaller items and curios while the third floor is where you’ll find furniture and larger relics.
Between Madison and Beaver Dam, it’s about an hour and a half drive from Milwaukee and a great spot to find your next prized possession. You know, the “I thrifted this” piece you’ll go out of your way to point out to your house guests. We can’t be the only ones who do that, can we?