Allen, the Antique Capital of Michigan, is located on highway 12 in South Central Michigan about 5 miles West of the
Munro House Bed and Breakfast in Jonesville. It is a community that is small in every respect except the availability of antique shops.
A town that was once a series of homes transformed into antique stores has expanded to include several antique malls, including Michigan’s Largest. Capital Antiques boasts 36,000 square feet and 300 dealers. Allen Antique Barn has 300 dealers on 2 floors. Hog Creek has 23,000 square feet and is Allen’s newest mall. The Primitive Connection is just what it says it is. There is also Allen Antique Mall, Thistle Dew Antiques, Michiana Antiques, Peddler’s Alley, and Preston’s Gas Light Village.
In addition to traditional antiques, are memorabilia, knick-knacks, and collectibles. There is a booth that just offers Coca-Cola items, one with candles, several with sports cards, and many with glassware, tea sets, and furniture. Arts and crafts, books, games, and toys are also available to provide an eclectic variety of items. Barbie, G.I. Joe, and American Girl are well represented. There are also records, video tapes, magazines, and text books.
Many booths have a collection of cookbooks, kitchenware, and baskets along with cabinets, table sets, and lamps. Some have bedroom sets, end tables, and victrolas. There is also wall art and table art in surprising quantities. Basically, there is an enormous assortment of valuables within a few minutes of each other.
Many Munro House guests spend a liesure day walking. shopping, and reminiscing at one or more of the Antique Malls in Allen. The malls are open most every day from 10-5, so any day can be a good day to go antiquing.
Mike Venturini – Innkeeper
“Life is good in Jonesville”
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