Collector's Central in Solway, Minnesota

While my husband and I were traveling through northern Minnesota, we accidentally happened by Collector's Central in Solway, Minnesota.

Collector's Central is an old school building that has been turned into an antique store. It is trinket farming at its best!

As we walked through the front doorway, an alarm sounded, and shortly thereafter we heard footsteps coming up the steps. The alarm was turned off, and we were greeted by the owner and his friendly black cat.

Collector's Central is 6000 square feet. It consists of two rooms of vintage clothes ranging in years from 1860-1970. There are two rooms lined with books, as well as close to 16,000 comics, older and newer magazines, all kinds of jewelry, postcards (the brochure says 60,000 plus, and I believe it.), and in other rooms you can find old advertisements and many antique photographs. It would be impossible to list everything that this store holds. It is safe to say that there is something in that building for everyone.

There really did not seem to be any sort of clear organization to the store, and beware, if you aren't up for an adventure, you don't want to go to this place. However, if you do brave Collector's Central, and happen to have problems finding what you are looking for, all you have to do is ask the owner. He is happy to find what you are searching for if he has it.

In a town of 69 people, we really were not expecting much in the way of businesses, but with Collector's Central we found a gem. Sure the roof needs a lot of work; you will see a number of buckets collecting rain. Of course, the wind does sound a little fierce in some of the rooms, but this place has a certain charm and whimsy that you will find unforgettable. Plus, you never know what kind of treasure you will find in or around the next corner. It is truly a modern day treasure hunt.

Prices are very reasonable; but be sure to take cash. Collector's Central does not accept debit or credit cards.

Collector's Central is located on Hwy 2 in Solway, Minnesota, ten miles west of Bemidji. It is open seven days a week. Hours are flexible, but if by chance the store is not open, you can give them a call at (218) 467-3408. You can also check them out on E-bay under "juntiques".