Antique shopping is a popular pastime and hobby. It is a great way to add a unique touch to your home or to find interesting items you would not have otherwise discovered. Thankfully, Mississippi has many antique stores that are full of valuables that have been passed down through the generations. These shops will make the antique lover’s dream come true. Before listing them, let’s discuss some fun facts about this classic hobby.
Historical Context
First, let’s delve into the history of antique shopping. Antiquing dates back as early as the early 1600s; however, there wasn’t a large market for it until around the second quarter of the 19th century. It started with people casually collecting cherished items that were created by the generations prior. The adoration of ancient items was especially prevalent during this era. Collecting antiques was a common practice all over the world, including Britain, Egypt, Rome, and the United States. Although this practice was growing in many countries around the world, some studies hint at the possibility that antiquing, as we know it today, may have started in Europe. The antique capital of the United States is Adamstown, Pennsylvania.
Definitions
What exactly is an antique? An antique is an item that is at least 100 years old. What is antiquing? According to Dictionary.com, antiquing is “the practice of shopping for or collecting antiques.” People shop for antiques for many different reasons. Some have an affinity for stories of the past. Others want to add a unique twist to their home decor. There are those who view antiquing as an investment (if they know the piece will appreciate in value over time).
Where Should You Shop?
With the knowledge that Mississippi has a rich history, it is the perfect state to antique. There are many popular shops sprinkled throughout the state. If you are new to the world of antiquing or if you want to explore a new place, here are a few shops to visit:
- The Dapper Wolf (Hattiesburg)
- Peddlers’ Junktion (Laurel)
- The Lucky Rabbit (Hattiesburg)
- Antiques and More (D’Iberville)
- Collins Antique and More Mall (Collins)
- Flowood Antique Flea Market (Flowood)
- Relics Antique Marketplace (Tupelo)
- The Depot Antique Mall (Oxford)
- Ocean Springs Mercantile (Ocean Springs)
- European Antiques Auction Gallery (Seminary)
Stepping Into a Time Machine
Through antiques, we gain the ability to explore stories of the past, both told and untold, in the most intimate and profound way. Whether you go antiquing to study history or to discover hidden gems, you are likely to find yourself immersed in a fascinating time capsule. Do you enjoy shopping for antiques? What is your favorite antiqued item and why? Let us know in the comment section of Our Mississippi Home’s Facebook page.
