Historical society hosts antiques appraisal
Submitted Photo
Strawberries and local history are on the schedule as part of the Iola Historical Society’s 35th annual Strawberry Fest.
The event will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, June 23, at the Historic Village complex on Depot Street, west of North Main Street in downtown Iola.
Local crafters will display their handiwork, and an Antiques Appraisal Fair will provide experts on a wide range of collectibles.
Attendees can bring items for evaluation and pricing information.
The appraisal cost is $3 per item or $5 for three items, with all proceeds benefiting the Iola Historical Society.
Antique and collectible appraisers include experts on general antiques, books, comics and popular-culture collectibles, sports collectibles, militaria and medals, toys, coins and paper money.
A craft show will also be held on the grounds.
Crafters will feature hand-woven baskets, seasonings, jams, jellies, jewelry, handbags, sock monkeys, aprons, quilted bags and crocheted and knitted items.
Spots remain available for $10 each by calling Barb Johnson at 715-445-3777.
Food items available for purchase will include homemade strawberry shortcake, pulled pork sandwiches and hot dogs from Pine Grove Meats.
Assorted sodas and bottled water will also be available for purchase from Iola’s Boy Scout Troop 631.
The food and beverage offerings will be available in the historical society’s Machine Shed at 222 Depot St.
There will also be a raffle ($3 per ticket or three for $5) with a $100 cash top prize and other prizes.
All proceeds benefiting the Iola Historical Society are earmarked for restoration projects.
The Iola Historic Village buildings will be open for visitors, including the original vintage Iola and Northern Railroad depot, which is undergoing restoration to its original design.
The other buildings include a replica of a local one-room schoolhouse, a 1930s log cabin used in the area by hunters, a replica of Iola’s original fire station containing Iola’s vintage firefighting vehicles, the original Helvetia Town Hall, The Machine Shed filled with vintage farm and manufacturing equipment, a recently restored vintage caboose and the historical society’s newly remodeled and expanded museum.
Admission to the event is free. Donations are accepted.
For more information, visit www.iolahistoricalsociety.org or www.ischamber.com.