Old City Hall Shoppes

Books By Local Authors

2012-01-05T14:48:00.000-05:00

Homegrown & Handmade by Deborah Niemann $22.95
Swygert by Jeffery Harold Utterback $17.95 softcover, $27.95 hardcover
Route 66: A Photo Journal by Michael Campanelli $45.00

Come on in and check them out. They make great reading for yourself or as a gift for a friend.

Homegrown and Handmade Book Signing

2011-12-13T15:15:00.000-05:00

Deborah Niemann, author of Homegrown and Handmade, will be signing books at Old City Hall Shoppes on Sunday, Dec. 18 from 1-3pm. Deborah moved her family from Chicago to Livingston County in 2002 to be able to raise their own organically grown food. Deborah has since become a sought-after speaker on the topic of sustainable living. This book would make a great Christmas gift for someone on your list!

Santa's been here...

2011-11-19T13:52:00.000-05:00

and he bought this doll's house. He says his name is Amanda, but I'm pretty sure it was really him!

Merry Christmas!

2011-11-10T17:32:00.001-05:00

We have many vintage items in the shop which can be used in your Christmas decorating! And some ideas to take home with you as well. This year we printed large letters on old book pages to spell out holiday wishes. The tree is one cut from a friend's woodlot, and we painted it white. Burlap adds some nice texture too...you can easily use it at home for a rustic tree skirt or ribbon on a wreath.

I've seen book pages used as wall paper, but we just used a bit of tape to make a backdrop for the Christmas season. By using several different books, we got lots of shades of mellow whites.

Springs from an old crib or bed make a great way to display Christmas cards and photos.

Lots of shades of white, and lots of little white lights! Put some little lights in your house plants too!

Crib rails can be used for magazine racks, trellis, towel racks, or use clothes pins or office clips to display your holiday cards. Antique cribs make great display pieces, but they are not up to today's safety standards, so we find lots of ways to use those wonderful old metal pieces.

Vintage bottles, mirrors, prisms, and frogs

Book pages, skates

Vintage lace and glassware. Pull out all the red and green, and cut glass pieces.

They sparkle in the Christmas lights!

Pennants and Prisms...

2011-10-13T14:19:00.000-04:00

Rah, rah!

I don't know what these prisms were a part of, but I like them...one side is mirrored and they reflect the light so nicely! Heavy too. They'd make great paperweights.

Thunderbird....

2011-07-14T15:36:00.002-04:00

Gee..our visitors drive the coolest vehicles. This one was sitting out front when I came back from the bank. It really would be a kick to travel Route 66 in this!

Such a dashboard...love that speedometer.

Traveling the old road...

2011-06-05T16:09:00.000-04:00

This weekend we've had lots of international travelers on Route 66.

The rain finally stopped and we have blue skies!

Mary Wolf is now selling her handmade bracelets at Old City Hall Shoppes. She can make them in whatever colors you like. In the last few days I've sold them to visitors from Sweden, France and Japan! So fun to meet people from around the globe who love Route 66!

Happy Valentine's Day

2011-01-28T16:03:00.001-05:00

Our Christmas lights have gone all Valnetines on us. I just pushed heart shaped paper doilies over the lights (far enough so they don't touch the bulbs) and it looks pretty. Our tin ceilings look like part of a valentine too!

Pink and red pottery and textiles

The red glassware is always good for Valentine's Day. It shows up some much better if you can light it up, either in a lighted case or with some little twinkle lights like we do in the shop.

I got a little carried away with the hearts! It's like being in a valentine card.

Soaps and sachets make nice little Valentines for your friends.

More red and pink!

Jolly Trolly Holliday Open Houses

2010-11-12T16:29:00.000-05:00

This is the holiday open house weekend in Pontiac. Come on downtown, visit our shops and sign up to win the 100 dollar shopping certificate. Many merchants are serving treats and have special deals going on. We have hot cider and chocolate to share here at the shoppes.

Get that red and green going on....vintage style!

Shiny Brite and other vintage ornaments.

Hope to see you this weekend!
Friday 10-6
Saturday 10-4
Sunday 12-4

Airplanes and Trunks...

2010-08-21T14:23:00.005-04:00

Marianne put this great old trunk in the shop today.
Check out the interior! All lined with vintage wallpaper.
She's got it priced at 40.00. It has casters on the bottom and a flat top, so it could be used for a coffee table.
We've also got some interesting books about war planes in the shop.

PT Street Cruiser hits Route 66

2010-05-09T14:05:00.003-04:00

Today we had the Heflins from Virginia stop by the Old City Hall Shoppes and the Illinois Rt. 66 Museum. They are driving their awesome PT Cruiser all dolled up for a trip down Route 66.

Get your kicks on Route 66!

This little guy prefers to ride in the fresh air apparently.
Monkeying around on Route 66?

We hope they have a great time on the rest of their trip!

Touring Route 66

2010-05-07T14:57:00.002-04:00

Today we had a charming group of Frenchmen stop in at the shop (one was camera shy). They bought bikes and are almost done traveling Route 66...they are finishing up in Chicago. It's so much fun to meet and greet all the folks traveling the old road.

PJ's Doll's Clothes

2010-03-17T14:18:00.004-04:00

Paula Steidinger makes wonderful doll's clothes to fit American Girl and similarly sized dolls. She has clothes to fit Bitty Baby sized dolls too. The clothes are handmade by Paula and her relatives. She also carries some accessories such as shoes. As an example of prices: a two piece outfit (skirt and top) is $7.50, and a 3 piece outfit (skirt, leggings, and top) is $9.50. If you have been pricing doll's clothes lately, you know this is a bargain!

Fabric, Fibers and Frills

2010-03-15T23:17:00.003-04:00

Fabric, Fibers and Frills is located in Old City Hall Shoppes since the owner, Margaret Boehle, is in college, hard at work on earning her degree. She has Plymouth Yarn and Crystal Palace knitting needles, as well as many other fiber art supplies. Margaret also sells goats milk soap, roving and yarn from her families' farm, Antiquity Oaks. Stop in and check it out!

Fresh from the auction!

2010-03-14T15:32:00.001-04:00

Pottery planters ready for spring!

Great old primitive cabinet and advertising signs.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-23T11:58:00.001-05:00

Old City Hall Shoppes will be closed December 24th and 25th. Have a happy holiday!

Merry Christmas!

2009-11-14T13:11:00.004-05:00

Sometimes people ask where we get our ideas for decorating the shop. Sometimes the ideas come from the oddest places....this year we were inspired by a crazy cover photo from Oprah's Magazine (http://static.oprah.com/images/200912/omag/cover-poll/200912-omag-cover-lights-poll-large.jpg) to go back to those big lights from our childhood. They're so cheerful...we just mixed them up with the little white lights for some sparkle. Even the chandelier (below) got the treatment!

Do you have lots of old pictures of long gone ancestors? Tuck them in your tree and add some old fashioned popcorn or yo-yo garland. No pics of ancestors of your own? Come on in...you can have instant ancestors from the shoppes collection!

The vintage kitchen cupboard in red and white will instantly add cheer to your kitchen.

Happy Little Customer

2009-09-06T16:28:00.002-04:00

This is the sweet little granddaughter of one of our dealers. She found a dolly to keep her company while she was here....and of course Grandma bought it so she could take it home.

Summer Bash...Murals and More Coming to Pontiac

2009-06-03T12:57:00.003-04:00

Pontiac is hosting The Walldogs this summer! The Walldogs are a group of sign painters and muralists from around the world. Each summer they converge in one town to create wonderful murals. 160 artists will visit Pontiac to create 17 murals around the downtown area. This design will be painted on the side of Old City Hall Shoppes! Come to Pontiac June 25, 26, 27 and 28. In addition watching the murals being painted, you can attend Heritage days on the square and the Hang Loose Car Show in Riverside Park. You can view more of the mural designs here.

Rearranging...

2009-01-29T18:27:00.004-05:00

We are bring in some vintage treasures fresh from the auction...so we're doing a lot of rearranging. Come on in visit!

The Team

2008-12-15T14:36:00.002-05:00

I just thought I'd share this photo with you....when you come to Old City Hall Shoppes, chances are you will be greeted by someone in this photo. This is me, Jan and Bob (my mom and dad) and Hawkeye. This photo was taken by Chuck Dunning, one of the veterans who volunteers at the Livingston County War Museum. The Liv. Co. War Museum and the Rt. 66 Hall of Fame Museum share the building with us....you'll want to visit them while you are here.

Shake it up.

2008-12-11T18:17:00.002-05:00

Sometimes you just have to shake things up to make room for new stuff. I did a little rearranging today. Marianne is renting the other half of this room for a while and I can't wait to see what she brings in. What I did in here has a little bit of a shabby cottage look.

Jolly Trolly Holiday Open Houses

2008-11-07T14:11:00.002-05:00

This weekend, Nov. 7,8, and 9th we will be holding our open houses in Pontiac. You can shop the square, visit the museums, and ride the trolly to tour Pontiac and visit two of our historic homes.

Be sure to stop at Old City Hall Shoppes to visit us.

We've got some cookies and banana bread waiting for you.

Decorate for Halloween with Antiques

2008-09-24T15:41:00.004-04:00

Halloween decorating and antiques are natural partners. If you add some flickering candles or lamplight....some of the things automatically seem right out of a scary movie. The chandelier above is beautiful anytime, but when you add flicker bulbs it fits Halloween perfectly. Mirrors are great too...for reflecting the candlelight and adding a little spooky movement as people move about.

And old barnwood potting table makes a good display piece. We dressed it up with fall flowers, pumpkins and gourds and old lamps.

I still have to get this just right....I put a purple light inside the piano ...hoping for a spooky look. But I need a stronger light to get the affect of a haunted piano.

Every year we get out the pumpkins and crows and add them to other things that can have a spooky feel. This year we used orange pottery, globes and bird cages.

This cupboard had a nice harvest color inside already...we just added all the amber and carnival glass we could find.

Old shoes seem more like a witches' shoes this time of year. Rusty keys, oil lamps and candlesticks are great mood makers too.

Old photos are one of my favorite things to decorate with. Our carved gourds are made by a local couple. They do a great job...each one has it's own personality. They also provide us with wonderful dyed gourds...they look like squash in a display, but you don't have to worry about them rotting...they stay perfect from year to year.

Come on in and visit us.

We promise we aren't too scary ;)

Walking Rt. 66

2008-08-13T11:58:00.003-04:00

Hawkeye greets Cherylynn

One of the things I like best about running OCHS is the people I get to meet. Today I met Cherylynn Delfino. She's a spunky young lady from New Jersy and she is walking across the country! She just started the Route 66 portion yesterday. Good Luck Cherylynn!

Welcome Sherri of Simply Country

2008-08-12T14:46:00.005-04:00

Old City Hall Shoppes welcomes new dealer Sherri Mackinson. Sherri recently closed her popular shop, Simply Country, but she decided to still offer some of her merchandise here at Old City Hall Shoppes. She carries Yankee and McCall candles, Park Designs table linens, and country accents.

Sherri is not new to Old City Hall Shoppes. Like me, she was one of the original dealers at Old City Hall Shoppes....it must have been about 14 years ago when OCHS opened. Quite a few of us went on to open our own shops.

Welcome Sherri...we're glad you're here!

Heritage Day 2008

2008-08-03T01:00:00.004-04:00

We had lovely weather for Heritage day. Here's a little bit of what went on on the square today.
Many folks took a carriage ride around town.
The sheep shearing demonstration was very popular. This man sheers them quickly and the sheep certainly don't seem to mind. There were all kinds of old time skills and crafts demonstrated...basket making, spinning, quilting, lampwork, blacksmithing, stained glass... there was even a pie contest. Yum!
We set up a booth on the square to bring a little bit of the shop outside....here's our fancy sign!
And a view into the booth about midway through the day....we had sold quite a bit by this time.
A shopper finds a treasure.

Heritage Day

2008-08-01T23:00:00.000-04:00

August 2 is Heritage Day in Pontiac. There will be lots to do on Pontiac's square. There will be demonstrations of old time crafts and skills, entertainment and food. For a look at last year check out this post.

We will be set up in a tent on the square to give folks a glimpse of Old City Hall Shoppes... and if you visit the booth you can pick up a coupon to receive 10% off your purchases if you visit the shop that day.

New Treasures

2008-06-28T20:47:00.002-04:00

I went to an auction today and got some great vintage pieces for the shop. I'm working on cleaning it all up and pricing and hopefully will get it in the shop tonight.
Remember we are open from 12-4 on Sunday, so if you'd like to see what's new come on in!

Busy Weekend...

2008-06-23T13:53:00.003-04:00

We had a busy weekend and sold a lot out of this display, so I just keep tweaking it and adding different things. The red and white table and chairs are still here. We are now open until 7 on Friday nights all through the summer.

Along the way...The Antique Shoppe, Fairbury, IL

2008-06-20T20:28:00.006-04:00

Occasionally I will feature some of my favorite nearby shops that you can visit on your way to see us at Old City Hall Shoppes. Today, I'm taking you to one of my favorite shops: The Antique Shoppe in Fairbury, IL. It's on Route 24 as you go through Fairbury.

There are plenty of goodies on the outside as well as inside.

As you step inside, you are greeted by a porch full of vintage treasures.

This is at the other end of the porch. One of these days I'm going to break down and buy that Gross Landing sign. That would be hilarious hanging on our back landing at home...very descriptive!

Inside you are greeted by Kathy Kupferschmid. She and her husband Daton own this sweet shop. Let's not focus on me, lets focus on how cute Kathy looks in her vintage apron!

Sorry about the flash photos...I just don't hold steady enough to do without it. The kitchen is full of antique kitchenware and yummy dips and gourmet sauces.

Here's one of the rooms decked out for the 4th of July....which is when they hold a big sale at Kathy's shop. So now you know where to go antiquing when everyone else is closed on the 4th!

As we head up stairs we see some Jessie Steele aprons....so cute and so well made. Kathy carries many neat items that you've admired on the web.

Kathy carries antiques with a few carefully chosen new home accents and jewelry. Love that giant clock!

The shop is full on both floors. Her displays will give you plenty of ideas. You can visit Kathy's new shop blog here.

There are plenty of shops on your way to Pontiac to make for a fun antiquing trip. This one is about 20 minutes from us. While you are in Fairbury, Kathy can tell you how to find the other antique shops in her town. As you continue on, you will find the Redbird Antique Mall in Chenoa on Rt 24. Then take either old Rt 66 or the new 55 up to Pontiac and see us!

Meet Hawkeye

2008-06-12T15:05:00.005-04:00

It just occurred to me that I've never introduced Hawkeye on the blog. He is my standard poodle and he comes to work with me every day. Most of the time when people are here he is napping in the office, but he keeps an eye on everything.
He is named after the character on M.A.S.H., which is kind of cool, as we have the war museum on the second floor of our building. If you are a dog lover, be sure to say Hi to him!

New Finds!

2008-06-05T00:01:00.005-04:00

I went to an auction and brought home a load...make that 2 loads of new treasures! Come on in and see what we have. I am loving this little red and white kitchen table and chairs (there are 4 chairs, just 3 are shown). It would be perfect on a porch.

Remember, the greenest thing you can do is use things again.......and that's what antiquing is all about!

Home Again Antiques at Old City Hall Shoppes

2008-05-27T15:45:00.004-04:00

New line of dinnerware...Feed on the Word, mixes well with vintage glassware and china!

As some of you know, I used to have a storefront on the square...lately, I've had a few folks asking if I'm still in the business. Well, Home Again Antiques is still alive and well and living at Old City Hall Shoppes. I'm here almost every day...unless I'm out finding new treasures to fill the shop. If I'm not here, Bob or Jan will be here to help you.

Stop in and see us!
Joyce

Globes, plant stands, railroad oil can, oil painting, and as always...old books

Old light fixture, which could be used for a light fixture, but also makes a great candle holder! Old book with charming cover.

This little bird has been making his nest with paper from old books right in the flowerpots!

Hand painted tea set, vintage teacups and saucers, and old portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Valentine

I used to think I didn't like orange or amber...but now I love it!

New Summer Hours-Open Sundays!

2008-05-22T01:15:00.002-04:00

Old City Hall Shoppes will have new summer hours starting June 1st.
Monday: Closed
Tues.-Friday: 10-5
Saturday: 10-4
Sunday: 12-4

Going Up! The elevator is coming!

2008-05-19T12:04:00.005-04:00

We are getting an elevator to make our building more accessible. The city owns the Old City Hall building and the attached firehouse. Recently they decided to put in an elevator to make the museums and shops easier for all to use. Thanks also goes to the Humiston Trust for their large donation.
The two buildings are connected on the upper level, but an open drive is between the two ...the elevator will go in this space.
I'm so excited about this project. Many times I have seen WWII vets come and not be able to see the war museum because they could not climb the stairs. Other times I have seen these men, some on oxygen, slowly climbing the steps and taking breaks to see the exhibits. If you haven't seen the museum, you really should visit. It's a very moving experience.

The elevator will also make our shoppes accessible as well as the upper level of the Route 66 Museum and the Campanelli photography exhibit in the old jail cells.

Lavender Sachets

2008-04-11T04:18:00.005-04:00

Handmade by yours truly from vintage linens and recycled buttons. The toile came from some beautifully made but faded vintage drapes from a Tennessee home. It has a wonderful mellow look. The sachets are filled with lavender buds and are very fragrant. If the scent starts to fade over time, simply gently squeeze the sachet to release a fresh burst of scent. Perfect for tucking in a drawer, closet, or car. Makes a nice little gift too.

Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross Visit OCHS

2008-04-02T20:00:00.003-04:00

It's not every day we have a visit from Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross in our shop! Today Mr. Franklin and Mrs. Ross were visiting to do some programs in the area. They are history interpreters Ralph Archbold and Linda Wilde from (where else?) Philadelphia. When I googled them I found that they are also engaged to be married. Congratulations to the happy couple.

All Natural Handcrafted Soaps

2008-03-27T17:09:00.005-04:00

Home Again Antiques at Old City Hall Shoppes has just stocked 12 wonderful scents of all natural handcrafted soaps. We are proud to offer these high quality soaps. They contain no synthetic fragrances, colors or preservatives. They also retain all the glycerin produced in the soap making process....so they are non-drying and leave your skin feeling wonderful.
These soaps are made in the USA.
We even have a men's scent packaged up just for the Route 66 fans! All soaps are $4.95 per bar.

Welcome Diana Rich-new dealer at OCHS

2008-03-25T00:22:00.002-04:00

We are happy to welcome Diana Rich as a new dealer at Old City Hall Shoppes. Diana has been collecting antiques for years and this is her first time to try her hand at being a dealer. Diana has a wide variety of vintage and new items in her room. Everything from vintage farm tools to dishes to handcrafted jewelry. Come on in and check it out!

Think Spring...

2008-03-19T12:59:00.005-04:00

We have some little mama birds in their nests waiting to go home with you and bring a little spring to your nest.

It's almost Easter! We have some vintage and some new Easter items that might make the perfect centerpiece for your Easter table. After the holiday, they are wonderful spring accents.

M. Campanelli's Rt. 66 Photography Show Opening

2008-03-08T02:05:00.006-05:00

Here is a shot of our building, Pontiac's old City Hall and Firehouse. The new art exhibit is in the spaces linking the two buildings on the upper level. It's a wonderful old building.
Michael Campanelli (center) stands with Pontiac and Rt. 66 museum officials for the ribbon cutting on his photography exhibit.
Visitors mingle as they prepare to visit the Rt. 66 photography exhibit for the first time.
Author John Weiss speaks as Pontiac mayor Scott McCoy looks on.
Michael Campanelli meets with the press at the opening. It's a wonderful exhibit. Come visit us and enjoy our museums, the photography exhibit and our shop.

Hanging an Art Show

2008-03-08T01:19:00.005-05:00

There has been much excitement in our building lately. The city has been restoring the old jail cells to house a wonderful photography exhibit. Michael Campanelli travelled Rt 66 from end to end in eight days......recording his trip every step of the way. Here Michael and Rt. 66 expert and author John Weiss watch the progress being made on the hanging of the photos.
The city has done a wonderful job of restoring these rooms........you should have seen what they looked like before. I'm really sorry I didn't take "before" photos! Now they are a beautiful space to showcase Campanelli's work. Here city administrator Bob Karls checks out the progress.
As you can see these photos are hung in an old jail cell complete with barred doors and windows. This space is accessible from our shop. The gallery space connects our shop and the war museum with the Illinois Rt. 66 Association Museum. Now you can come in one of the spaces and wander through the whole building with out ever having to go back outside. Soon we will have an elevator to complete the project.

Getting Ready for Spring........

2008-02-24T00:38:00.003-05:00

We have a ton of these cabinet cards. I love to imagine what the people were like........and check out their fabulous clothes. Fabulous to look at. I sure wouldn't want to have to wear all those corsets and petticoats! The photos make wonderful fodder for collages, displays, and many kinds of artwork. I sketched a face from one the other day. Don't laugh now, I'm just learning to draw people.

We are getting ready for spring! There hasn't been many photos lately...but I should have taken some before and after photos. You see, the city has been restoring some more rooms in our building.. the old jail cells. They will house a wonderful art exhibit.........I'll take some pics of the hanging of the exhibit and give you a sneak preview through the blog. The photos depict sights along Route 66. More info on the opening of the exhibit in a future post.

Quilt Winner

2008-02-09T01:57:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Tim Fornero. Tim won the antique grandmother's flower garden quilt we were raffling to benefit Heifer International. We are still totaling the figures from the raffle, ark room sales, craft show and living gift market at First Baptist of Bloomington. We will report back soon with a total for our Heifer International fund raiser.

Maurine's New Room

2008-02-07T01:58:00.001-05:00

The long awaited elevator for our building is planned to come in through one of Maurine's rooms. So we have moved her into this sweet little room. Maurine has a ton of cute kitchen stuff...including lots of vintage pyrex.
We are expecting work on the elevator to start soon, but we are already feeling the effects of another construction project. The city workers are restoring 4 more rooms (including the old jail cells!) in our building. These rooms will house a RT. 66 photography exhibit. So, though it may be dusty here at the moment, we still have lots of cool things for your home...and the dealers are bringing new finds regularly. Come on in and check it out.

We'd love to see you...

2008-01-15T20:12:00.000-05:00

and have you see our take on Valentine's Day. Where else can you buy frou-frou?!

Christmas Countdown...4 more days!

2007-12-20T13:29:00.000-05:00

Have a merry 50s/60s Christmas!

2007-12-04T21:18:00.000-05:00

Maurine brought in a wonderful aluminum tree and color wheel. The tree still has its original box and instruction book! I have a cute little vintage tree skirt around the bottom that is also for sale. We put it up by the cash wrap. I've got half a mind to see if I can totally do this little area in 50s/60s stuff. If you're into the cool mid-century stuff drive on over and pick up your tree!

Oh Baby....

2007-11-30T20:30:00.000-05:00

We've got the cutest little baby dresses. These are handmade vintage baby dresses...probably from the 1930's.
Look at that ric-rac trim on the blue one. Just precious. This is just a sample of what's available. They would look sweet on your little one or as a nursery decoration....they are only 8-10 dollars each.

Handmade Jewelry

2007-11-16T23:06:00.002-05:00

At Old City Hall Shoppes two of our dealers are jewelry designers. These bracelets in Pontiac Indian or Illini colors are the work of Jen Woodburn. They fall in the 10-20 dollar price range. Perfect way to show your team colors!
These necklaces are also by Jen. There are many more available in a rainbow of colors. Jen also makes beautiful rosaries.

Amber Detwiler's jewelry is also very beautiful. She crafts her jewelry of sterling silver wire, beads and findings. Her beads are gemstones, pearls, and Swarovski crystals.

Bracelet by Amber Detwiler.

Both Amber and Jen will make jewelry just for you...think of the beautiful piece you could have made for your wedding or that special outfit.

Merry, Merry

2007-11-11T23:43:00.000-05:00

We had a wonderful open house weekend in Pontiac. We stayed open today and I was surprised at the number of folks who were shopping on a Sunday. Fun day.
This is our Feed on the Word dinnerware. Microwave and dishwasher safe...we can order any pieces you would like for you. We are putting together a gift registry so you can make a wish list at OCHS. Great for a wedding or birthday or even Christmas. Make your list, then send your husband to us to shop. Or your wife....I shouldn't assume our customers are women!

Jolly Trolly Holiday Open House

2007-11-10T23:16:00.000-05:00

We've been getting ready for you to visit us for Christmas! We collected the greens...it looks like pine freshener gone berserk in my car.
And we turned them into this. They smell wonderful!
When you come to visit you can check out where some of Santa's elves live...in a hollow tree just like those other famous TV elves.

Here's a peek into their little house.

We will be open Sunday, November 11 from 1-4pm. Stop by and have some cider and cookies with us. Many other downtown merchants will also be open tomorrow.

Closed November 8th for Decorating

2007-11-08T09:17:00.000-05:00

We are having an open house this weekend as part of Pontiac's Jolly Trolly Holiday Open Houses. Most downtown businesses are open extended hours to kick off the holiday season.

Our hours this weekend are:

Thursday, Nov. 8: Closed

Friday, Nov. 9: 10-6

Saturday, Nov. 10: 10-4

Sunday, Nov. 11: 1-4

Grandma's Dishcloths

2007-10-18T00:48:00.000-04:00

Well OK, these aren't grandma's but they are newly made and just like the ones she used. They are made from 100% cotton and can be machine washed and dried. If you've never used one, you really should try them. The work like a dream, have a wonderful texture, and wear like iron. Made right here in Illinois...by me!
This is just a nice little close-up, dishcloth glamor shot. I'm learning to use the macro on my camera.

Baseball, Football Cards for Sale

2007-10-12T01:15:00.000-04:00

One of our dealers, Bob, has many sports cards to offer the collector. This is just a portion of them. If he doesn't have what you want in the store you can get in touch with him to see if he has it at home. Stop in and see if he has just the right addition to your collection!

Spooky!

2007-09-14T00:27:00.000-04:00

Well, I know you've seen these jack-o-lanterns before, but I wanted to show you how adding a different background can really change up the mood. By adding the dark wool quilt and a few crows we have a more moody halloween look. This is easy to do at home too. The added bonus is that the quilts you use to do this do not have to be in pristine condition...which usually translates to a very affordable price.

We just tied some jute twine around the corners of the quilt and looped twine on a nail in the wall.

I have a new friend helping me at the cash register.

Pumpkin Time!

2007-09-10T14:01:00.000-04:00

We ready for fall at the shoppes! All these pumpkins and gourds are from a local couple who dye, carve and seal the gourds. We think they are the perfect halloween jack-o-lantern...and they'll last for years! Small jack-o-lanterns are 28 dollars, large ones are 32 dollars. The small gourds are three dollars and the large six dollars. The rusty footboard would make a great garden accent and is only $15.

We want Old City Hall Shoppes to be first a great antique mall. Then we want to offer wonderful items to accent that look or give as gifts...items made in the USA and as many as possible locally made.

Almost there...

2007-08-29T09:12:00.000-04:00

The mural is looking good! Now you can really see where they are going with this. Nice design, don't ya think?!

Let's Go Fly a Kite!

2007-08-26T02:06:00.000-04:00

Today we had a busy day at the shop, but I had to go out to the south edge of town and check out the kite flying event going on. The Chicago Kite Club, the Kansas City Kite Club and the Illinois Kite Club were all on hand with beautiful kites.
Some were huge and some were small. Some were being flown in formations almost like airplanes!
These kids were trying to get these crazy animal kites off the ground. They were made by people in one of the clubs.
Kids of all ages were flying...anyone could join in.
Check out all the strings on this giant!

Coming right along...

2007-08-24T01:39:00.000-04:00

The Diazs made some more progress today...but they had to quit because we had another batch of storms coming through. I talked to our city administrator today. He said they are going to get rid of the parking spaces right in front of the mural, put in some landscaping and also a pad were you can drive your car up and pose in front of the mural. That should be popular with all the vingtage car lovers!

Progress...

2007-08-18T19:16:00.000-04:00

Even though it rained today, they somehow got some more painting done!
In this picture you can see how the old firehouse (now the Rt66 Hall of Fame Museum) is connected to the old city hall building (now Old City Hall Shoppes and the Livingston Co. War Museum) by the upper floors. Yes, those are bars over some of the windows..those are old jail cells.

Route 66 Mural

2007-08-17T23:29:00.000-04:00

Pontiac is getting a new mural celebrating its place on Route 66 in Illinois. The mural is being painted on the back of the old firehouse part of our building complex. The Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum is housed in this building. Above is how it looked yesterday.
Today I caught the artists painting. The sign was designed and is being painted by Diaz Sign Art...a very talented family of sign artists from our own hometown of Pontiac.
In this one you can see a glimpse of the design taped up on the wall next to the painters. I'll keep you updated with pics as more progress is made. They estimate 5 days to paint the sign...but of course I'm sure much depends on the weather.

Back to School

2007-08-12T22:32:00.000-04:00

I just registered my daughter for school, so I thought we better revamp the displays in the store. It was fun to use warm autumn colors.
We have a great little painted twin bed for sale. I love the coverlet too...it's a traditional woven spread, but with a fun daisy motif. I think Red Riding Hood is something that was used in a store. The painting on it is wonderful.

Heritage Days

2007-08-11T14:39:00.001-04:00

Heritage Days is an event sponsored by PROUD celebrating our heritage. People demonstrating old time crafts set up under the trees all around the Livingston County Courthouse.
Making bowls the old fashioned way.
Tim Fornero has been caning chairs since his father taught him when he was 9 years old.
Cathy Grafton makes beautiful quilts embellished with silk ribbon embroidery,
and she even has a book out on the subject.

Dancing....clogging?
Dad selling raffle tickets for our quilt raffle.Jim Dixon sawing.

We also had blacksmithing, sheep shearing, puppet shows, clowns strolling the square, stained glass making.

Feed on the Word

2007-08-01T21:11:00.000-04:00

Ever want to start your day with scripture but forgot? I'm sorry to say that does happen to me. But now we are carrying a new line of dinnerware called "Feed on the Word" that will help remind you of the truly important things in life. Each place setting features scriptures centered around a different theme. A truly unique way to keep the word before you.
They are dishwasher and microwave safe and many different serving pieces can be ordered. We have chosen several to feature for our first order in stock.
They are simple enough to go in a contempory home and classic enough to mix with vintage china and glassware. They make great wedding or housewarming gifts. Stop by and check them out!

Launching "The Ark" in Pontiac (sneak peek!)

2007-07-11T23:25:00.000-04:00

Old City Hall Shoppes will be opening a new room called "The Ark" on July 20. There will be an open house from 6-9 that evening to introduce the public to our new room benefiting Heifer International. The room features artwork by local artists, antiques, handmade items and some high quality gently used furniture. The proceeds from this room will go to our goal of buying an ark for Heifer International (a $5000 donation) by the end of January. At this time we are still stocking the room and getting ready, but I thought I'd give you a sneak peek. If you'd like to make a donation toward our goal online you may do so on our donation page. Hopefully I'll figure out how to install a button in the sidebar to make it even easier.

We love the whole idea of how Heifer Int. works...it's truly "teaching a man to fish." They provide farm animals to families in impoverished areas, including the training in care, breeding, and environmentally friendly practices. These families benefit by improved nutrition, education, increased income, and self reliance. The families then pass on the gift by sharing the offspring and information with other families.

Clowning Around

2007-07-11T00:07:00.000-04:00

Shirley Wolfe (in the red hair) and her 3 beautiful granddaughters stopped by, but I could hardly recognize them! Shirley is a professional clown and she and her granddaughters were on their way to the local nursing homes. I'm sure they brought smiles wherever they went today. Shirley has a case of interesting and beautiful glassware here at the shoppes.
I just got back from vacationing and antiquing in Michigan, so I had to do a little rearranging to show off some new things. This cute little chic (and not too shabby) washstand is one of my finds. Janice also returned from Michigan with a van full of treasures. The quilt is one she brought back with her. Now she and Marianne are in Tennessee and I've no doubt they will return with some great things to sell.
The bird plate is one of the things I picked up in Michigan....I found quite a bit of china and glass this time.
Tomorrow I'll show you a peek at a special project the Old City Hall Shoppes is working on.

Red, White and Blue

2007-06-20T19:04:00.000-04:00

Today we set up a new display for July. I love all the red, white and blue. We have a lot of traffic to the war museum upstairs too, so it fits right in. Lots of goodies for the porch here.
Marianne had this wonderful old print in her room. I'm sure some navy man's mom or wife is going to love it as much as we do.

New (old) Treasures!

2007-06-19T21:32:00.000-04:00

Just as you come in...we've taken to setting things outside every day to attract shopper's attention.

Aren't these flowers eye-poppingly pretty?! I cut them this morning in our garden and in my mom's.
I picked up this cute little doll's furniture at 3rd Sunday Market in Bloomington. I just love the colors and shapes. There's a little tag on the bottom of the bath set that says Marshall Field's. Even though Macy's bought them out you can get a Marshall Field's fix right here at OCHS.
I got some picnic baskets at the market too. They are all in good shape and work well for storage as well as picnics.
These little birds are cute little guys...they are painted up so nicely. Janice brought these in from her treasure hunting over the weekend.

2007-06-11T21:34:00.000-04:00

Well today I had a friend at the shop and she said I should put a picture of me on the blog. I don't have one of me at the shop...because I'm usually the one taking pictures. Joe (my husband) took this one a couple of weekends ago when we went to visit Morton Arboretum.

Is your name Jane?

2007-05-25T00:36:00.000-04:00

If so, we've got the perfect kitchen sign for you! Makes me wish my name was Jane...and that I had a wall big enough in my kitchen!

Janice just put this neat old shabby chest in her room...it is covered with the prettiest vintage wallpaper!
This cute young couple visited us today from Sweden...they are doing the Route 66 trip from Chicago to LA. We have many visitors from overseas who are travelling Route 66. I never knew that the old highway is so famous in other countries until I moved to Pontiac and started seeing tourists from all over stopping in town.

Red Carpet Corridor....miles of treasure hunting

2007-05-09T21:07:00.000-04:00

The Red Carpet Corridor event was a fun and busy weekend. Many folks got out and travelled the mother road searching for treasures. We were very busy both days and it was fun hearing everyone tell what the other towns were doing too.
There were plenty of old cars hitting Route 66 too. Wouldn't it be a "kick" to travel in this cute little car?!
This is actually Mom and Aunt Marianne setting goodies out on the sidewalk early in the morning...getting ready.
Colleen tending the cash wrap.
Marianne thinks she should fill this in and repaint....I'm not sure I could. I just think this is kind of sweet....guess that's why my house is full of odd stuff.

More Goodies for Your Home

2007-05-03T00:22:00.000-04:00

Harbin Antiques is owned by Bob and Janice Harbin. They are always on the hunt for great old things to stock their store. They spend a lot of time in Indiana and Michigan and often bring home wonderful vintage finds for their home and yours. They are my mom and dad, and I think they're pretty cool!

Got dishes? We do!

Home Again Antiques is owned by my husband and I. I do the shopping and arranging and he gets to do the heavy lifting! Poor guy. One of our rooms is slowly filling up with kitchen items. We have lots of vintage tablecloths....that can be used as is or made into sweet little kitchen curtains.

I love kitchen things from the 20's through the 50's. They are so cheerful and fun and really add character to a modern kitchen. Those little round shakers are actually powder shakers from Avon, but they look cute there...so there they are!

Walk the Red Carpet...

2007-05-01T10:03:00.000-04:00

This weekend, May 5th and 6th, Pontiac will participate in the Red Carpet Corridor event. Towns from Joliet to Towanda along Rt 66 will be hosting garage sales, flea markets, food and fun. We will be open Saturday 10-4 and Sunday 12-4 for the event.

Don't you just love that cute chair?
Vintage cars are a frequent site in Pontiac. Sometimes whole clubs of auto fanciers will hold meetings at the Rt. 66 museum next door. The owners of these cars were from England and were touring the whole of Route 66 on their holiday.
This little mama is nesting above our north door and none of us has the heart to kick her out so close to Mother's Day. Yes, there is a baby in there too. Just step to the side as you are coming in to avoid mama dropping a present on you!

Welcome to the Shoppes!

2007-04-18T00:09:00.000-04:00

We have been working hard rearranging and bringing our things from our antique booths and various storage areas. It's rather slow going but here is a shot of the hallway. There's a nice collection of cottage pictures in case you are a collector. We are trying hard to make almost everything for sale...so if you find that chair comfy, you can take it home! This room is one of Maurine's two rooms. They are packed to the brim with interesting things. Maurine brings in new things several times a week, so check back often.
Then next two pictures are a peek into Mari Memories, Marianne's shoppe. She has a wide variety of tins, planters, kitchenware and much more.

Since I closed my store awhile back, I had very little inventory left and it's slow going getting my rooms filled. Here is a peek of some things I have unpacked and gotten ready for you to take home.
Tomorrow I'll take take my camera in so I can show you some more things available at OCHS.

A little peek into Pontiac

2007-03-13T22:57:00.000-04:00

Here is a shot of our building...the old City Hall of Pontiac. When PROUD, our Main Street program, took it on as a project it had suspended ceilings and panelling everywhere. The first tenants of the antique mall did much of the restoration...lead by Elaine Immke and Patty Mackinson. The tenants stripped woodwork, revealed beautiful old tin ceilings, fixed and painted plaster and refinished floors. The city put a new roof on, made sure wiring and such were done and supported the project. It really was amazing to see the layers stripped away revealing the beauty of the old building beneath.

One block away is the Livingston County Courthouse. It recently received an extensive restoration of it's exterior. It's still the home of Livingston County courts and offices.
In front of the courthouse you can have your picture made with Abraham Lincoln. Lincoln worked in Livingston county as a circuit court lawyer. Bloomington artist Rick Harney has depicted President Lincoln as he looked at age 31 when he was snowbound in Pontiac for two weeks. Apparently someone thought he looked a little cold this winter and added a scarf!

Old City Hall Shoppes

Books By Local Authors

Homegrown and Handmade Book Signing

Read more about Deborah at her website.

Santa's been here...

Merry Christmas!

Pennants and Prisms...

Thunderbird....

Traveling the old road...

Happy Valentine's Day

Jolly Trolly Holliday Open Houses

Airplanes and Trunks...

PT Street Cruiser hits Route 66

Touring Route 66

PJ's Doll's Clothes

Fabric, Fibers and Frills

Fresh from the auction!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas!

Happy Little Customer

Summer Bash...Murals and More Coming to Pontiac

Rearranging...

The Team

Shake it up.

Jolly Trolly Holiday Open Houses

Decorate for Halloween with Antiques

Walking Rt. 66

Welcome Sherri of Simply Country

Heritage Day 2008

Heritage Day

New Treasures

Busy Weekend...

Along the way...The Antique Shoppe, Fairbury, IL

Meet Hawkeye

New Finds!

Home Again Antiques at Old City Hall Shoppes

New Summer Hours-Open Sundays!

Going Up! The elevator is coming!

Lavender Sachets

Ben Franklin and Betsy Ross Visit OCHS

All Natural Handcrafted Soaps

Welcome Diana Rich-new dealer at OCHS

Think Spring...

M. Campanelli's Rt. 66 Photography Show Opening

Hanging an Art Show

Getting Ready for Spring........

Quilt Winner

Maurine's New Room

We'd love to see you...

Christmas Countdown...4 more days!

Have a merry 50s/60s Christmas!

Oh Baby....

Handmade Jewelry

Merry, Merry

Jolly Trolly Holiday Open House

Closed November 8th for Decorating

Grandma's Dishcloths

Baseball, Football Cards for Sale

Spooky!

Pumpkin Time!

Almost there...

Let's Go Fly a Kite!

Coming right along...

Progress...

Route 66 Mural

Back to School

Heritage Days

Feed on the Word

Launching "The Ark" in Pontiac (sneak peek!)

Clowning Around

Red, White and Blue

New (old) Treasures!

Is your name Jane?

Red Carpet Corridor....miles of treasure hunting

More Goodies for Your Home

Walk the Red Carpet...

Welcome to the Shoppes!

A little peek into Pontiac