"On The Road"

I always enjoy hauling my furry little body around the countryside seeking the best and unique that exists in the antique world. But let’s face it – Would you go to a big ‘ol barn to have a former circus trapeze artist and clown sell you an antique gas pump? Hum, something to think about.

Actually, hundreds of thousands of people over the years since the 60’s have done just that. They made that short 6 ½ mile trek west of I-17 on the road to Prescott and found Smitty’s Big Barn on the north side of the highway.

When they found their way up the old steps to over 36,000 square feet of antique fun and adventure, they also ran into a couple of… well… let’s say the most unique people, Chuck and Eva. They kid about being antiques themselves but at 83 and 87 they get around that store faster than swiping your Visa through the cash machine.

I've run through this maze of memorabilia in the past to purchase some goodies but this trip was to stop, take in the atmosphere, say hi and catch up as so many do on their way into Prescott. Hey, with over 300,000 different items to consider… it can take a cat a while to make a decision.

Right now you could pick up a ’62 Vespa, a china cabinet from the 1860’s, a butter churn from the 1800’s, Red Wing crocks, more dishes than you’d need for a Paris Hilton party and even a hippo from Chuck’s circus days.

They have authentic old time gas pumps, games and puzzles, dishes and flatware, travel trunks from the early 1900’s, antique guns, and if you’re lucky, a one seat buggy or a 1929 Mercedes. (although this was sold to a man from Japan)

When visiting Smitty’s you could be roaming the isles with people from anywhere around the world including Belgium, Italy, France, Ireland, and some even arrive in a limo. For antiquing? And if you have the need, Chuck might even converse with you in French or Italian.

When you make that next trip to Prescott, AZ or just want a fun day trip out of Phoenix, make it to Smitty’s Big Barn and say hi to Chuck and Eva. You could mistake them for antiques but when they move and talk you’ll find they are very friendly and willing to help you find that special something! And if you can’t find it in 36,000 square feet…. Well… you’re not looking.

By the way… after leaving Smitty’s I found a most interesting place down the road that I may have to tell you more about later on. I stumbled across the Riatta Pass Gallery in Dewey-Humboldt, a terrific showroom filled with art and firearms, high end furniture and lucky for me, no rocking chairs. Fun place but…..

Mo lata.... Harry

PS - when you finally make it through to Prescott, you’ve got to enjoy lunch at the “Office” or dinner at Murphy’s. Yum, garlic fries – does it get any better? And remember? As for me… I always have to have a great place to eat when enjoying my antique adventures.

>> More Harry coming soon

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