By Christopher Johnson
The Amish community once again lived up to its reputation for craftsmanship and hospitality. This past weekend, Yoder’s Quilt Auction and Flea Market returned ahead of Labor Day for one last event before the onset of much colder days to come. Held Friday and Saturday off Leaton Rd in Clare, the event drew its usual heavy crowd, with organizer Simon Yoder confirming attendance landed right around the expected 12,000 visitors.
“Good sale all around. Vendors were happy,” Yoder said, noting the turnout was boosted by near-perfect weather: Sunny skies and comfortable temperatures in the high 60s and low 70s. Conditions were a far cry from the heavy rains that challenged some vendors during May’s spring auction, making this weekend feel more rewarding. Even with the occasional rainy day, vendors always seem to persevere, and so do the sales. After all, where there’s a will, there’s a way. Especially in the Clare County countryside.
While Friday proved to be the busier of the two days, offering everything from rugs to a wide range of fabric goods, Saturday’s spotlight stayed fixed on quilts alone. In total, 250 quilts crossed the auction block, split evenly across both days. Beyond the central barn, the flea market itself saw close to 500 vendors—more than originally expected. Tents were lined up in multiple aisles across the property. With everything from Amish-made furniture and handmade jewelry to discounted tools, books, antiques, and resale finds.
The antiques tent once again drew some of the heaviest traffic, according to Yoder. There’s something about old things that never fail to charm buyers in this kind of setting. In the middle of Amish country, where life moves slower and feels more connected to tradition, antiques resonate as part of a continuum you just don’t find in the modern, urban marketplace. That’s why these tents always hold a superior appeal, and probably always will.
The food at Yoder’s was nothing short of comforting. Savory chicken noodle soup, rib sandwiches, Sloppy Joes, crispy chicken baskets, and fresh burgers and subs offered a warm, home-cooked welcome to every visitor. Pies, ice cream, and iced coffee added a sweet finish to the meal, keeping energy well-nourished on both days. Each bite was a taste of the Amish tradition, and every purchase helped support the nearby Amish schools. This event is always a dedicated source of funding for education, so the kids appreciate your patronage.
By all accounts, this year’s summer edition of Yoder’s Quilt Auction and Flea Market was another success. Between smiling vendors, steady crowds, and ideal weather, it’s hard to ask for better results. It’s remarkable how a group of families like the Yoders can band together to achieve revenue goals that often rival or exceed those of modern commerce.
Even more impressive are the goods themselves. Timeless, practical, and essential to a sustainable lifestyle. Built with care and pride to endure through generations, they offer lasting value in a world distracted by flashy, overpriced “smart” devices. While you might replace your Samsung Galaxy every year, a good Amish tool or quilt lasts a lifetime.
