The Sept. 20-22 Springfield Antiques Extravaganza drew in thousands of dealers and attendees, transforming the Clark County fairgrounds in Ohio into a vibrant marketplace rich in history. While many antique enthusiasts are familiar with the event, it’s a hidden treasure for farmers and those passionate about agricultural artifacts. For both experienced collectors and newcomers, the huge market offers an opportunity to find distinctive pieces that celebrate agriculture’s rich heritage.

The semiannual Springfield Antiques Extravaganza, held each May and September, has become one of the premier antique shows in the country. Jon Jenkins, principal of Jenkins Management, the show’s promoter, said Extravaganza, “has been one of America’s top events for over 50 years, featuring over 2,000 vendors and 20,000 customers.” Notably, vintage farm items are among the things that attract collectors to the show.

While agricultural antiques can be found at events like antique tractor shows, by comparison, those events typically have less than 100 vendors and the selection of items is limited. With thousands of dealers, the Springfield Antiques Extravaganza offers an array of merchandise new places can rival and which cater to virtually any buyer. “This show has it all,” Jenkins remarked.

Amidst Extravaganza’s extensive offerings, farm toys – like diecast tractors, farm sets, and pedal tractors – stand out as a favorite among collectors. Some dealers specialize exclusively in these pieces, while others incorporate them into a wider selection of toys and collectibles.

Not far behind in popularity are agricultural advertising and signs. Those make attractive decor and serve as conversation starters about farming history. Many sign dealers have farm-related pieces in their inventory. This year, one Illinois seller enthusiastically announced, “Our trailer is packed for all you advertising collectors! Signs, gas/oil, soda, farm, and more!” Meanwhile, a vendor from Maine highlighted several Massey Ferguson and Oliver plow displays, enriching the variety available to interested shoppers.

Adding another layer, many dealers at Extravaganza feature antique machinery parts, particularly from well-known brands like John Deere, International Harvester, and McCormick, perfect for decorating basement or garage walls. Collectors will typically find numerous vendors with tractor hoods, seats, and emblems. One Illinois dealer showcased a booth dedicated to tractor parts. Beckoning to a Farmall hood, he mentioned, “It’s from a Farmall M,” adding, “I love Farmalls,” then panned around the other red hoods nearby.

Machine parts are complemented by an array of vintage farm tools ranging from hand-forged plows to antique seeders – plus livestock artifacts like branding irons, dairy collectibles, and feeding equipment. One visitor who is also a reseller, spoke about bone grinders used to create dietary calcium for livestock. “I am sure I am one of few that collect them. I have probably 10 different cutters altogether. They do stop people at shows wanting to know their use,” she described. Agricultural tools make great display pieces and are often available from sellers offering “farmhouse” decor. This year, that included an arrival with a stake-bed truck overflowing with farm tools and even salvaged barn parts, who announced, “Fresh picked Ohio farm load arriving (at Extravaganza) today.”

Adding to the eclectic mix of merchandise is agricultural ephemera, including catalogs, farming magazines, and manuals that offer a wealth of insight into the evolution and past practices in agriculture. Many dealers at Extravaganza have tables filled with books and paper collectibles, and farming-related pieces are commonplace. Among the interesting offerings this year was a “Classic Garden Tractors” poster from Lawn & Garden Tractor magazine, destined to be a collectible.

No matter the interest, exploring the aisles at the Springfield Antiques Extravaganza is an adventure. Each booth offers the promise of discovery, making the experience as much about the thrill of the hunt as the acquisitions. Equally important is the social aspect, where collectors and dealers often share stories, exchange restoration tips, and even trade items. These interactions foster a welcoming community among those with shared interests.

Whether it’s chasing down interesting artifacts or interacting with like-minded people, the Springfield Antiques Extravaganza is a spectacular event for farmers and collectors interested in agricultural antiques. It’s a great place to soak in some atmosphere – and maybe go home with a porcelain seed company sign or diecast International Harvester to foster or grow a collection.

The next Springfield Antiques Extravaganza is May 16-18, 2025. For more information, visit: jenkinsandco.com.