OSAGE – A large swap meet called the Sportsman’s Exchange is still being held near Osage through Sunday if you enjoy rummaging for items of all ages, sizes and values.
The event, known affectionately as a “hillbillie sale” by some in attendance, began Wednesday and continues through Sunday afternoon at the site of the former town of Devonia, about 6 miles south of Osage.
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“This is a small slice of Americana right here,” one man said as he spied a pile of bear traps and other goods. He said Saturday is the best day to attend but that Sunday might offer the best deals. “These folks will want to move the last of this stuff, they don’t want to pack it up.”
There is an auction being held as well, where anything can be sold.
Those who are selling said it cost only $10 to set up for the entire weekend. “A much better deal than we are getting at the North Iowa Events Center, where they are raising all the prices,” a woman from Charles City said. “And they don’t advertise or anything, that’s why no one goes there.”
Many of the vendors set up camp right there on-site to sell their goods. A couple from Rochester said they were selling a lot and having a great time. “Well worth the trip,” they said.
The Sportsman’s Exchange can be found by traveling north on T-38 from the Avenue of the Saints, headed towards Osage, and then turning east at 110th Street.
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