We know that fall means the start of many new things. It also brings the end of other things many of us enjoy during the spring and summer months. As an antique and vintage collector, I am always so happy when the Ann Arbor Antique Market begins in April and am sorry in September and October to know it is ending its monthly visits.

There are only two more weekends scheduled for the market this year: this weekend and next weekend, then it's on hiatus until next April.

During a time when recycling and reusing are very hot topics, this is a great place to visit. There are better quality goods to be found here than at many antique malls and garage sales. Many of the dealers are experts in their field and can answer questions about their items or questions about that cherished treasure you have been holding onto. Many periods are covered, from Victorian to Art Deco to Industrial Revolution.


I am a collector of a number of different things. I love vintage English china, vintage compacts, purses and jewelry. I know many people in this area are also collectors. My favorite collection is at the Zingerman's Roadhouse, where there are cases and cases of vintage salt and pepper shakers. You get a good taste of history when you ask Ari Weinzweig about them.

Maureen and Steve Walters own Pine Hill Antiques. They are in Building C at the antiques market and sell great examples of folk art, primitive American furniture, and even industrial molds and antique art. They are well-versed in the history and design of the things they collect.They share space with Steve Rosoff of France Ici. He has a fabulous collection of French furniture and anitiques.

Maybe I'll see you there on Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. or Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 5055 Ann Arbor-Saline Road. Tell me: Do you have any favorite dealers you visit there, and what do you collect?

Barb Roether is an Ann Arbor resident who spent her career working in retail, including many years as a personal shopper, and blogs about shopping for AnnArbor.com.