St. Joseph Auction and Antique Mart closing
ST. JOSEPH, MO (News-Press NOW) -- After 20 years in business, the St. Joseph Auction and Antique Mart will close its doors on Sept. 3.
The 20,000-square-foot antique mall, located at 3600 S. Leonard Road, has been home to more than 80 vendors, offering unique items to both travelers and community members.
For owners Chip and Julia Littlewood, the decision to close wasn’t easy and ultimately wasn’t theirs to make.
"Well after 20 years at the same location as the premier antique mall of St. Joe, the building owners decided to sell the building," Chip said. "Our last day will be Sept. 3."
The siblings of the late Mike Haskins have decided to sell the building, resulting in the lease being canceled and doors closing.
For many shoppers, the Antique Mart has been more than a place to buy old treasures, it’s been a reminder to slow down, rethink consumerism and enjoy the nostalgia of shared shopping trips across generations. Mother-daughter duo Brandy Bumphrey and Abby Jeffress said they just experienced three generations of their family making memories there.
"For myself, it's generally a fight against consumerism," Jeffress said. "Considering that usually whatever you want has already been made."
When they found out the mart was closing, they were disappointed to hear of the news, but not surprised considering most people shop anywhere from fast fashion to major online retailers.
Reflecting on more than a decade running the mart, Chip expressed gratitude for the community's support, the Readers' Choice awards and the relationships he's built through a shared love of antiques.
"We appreciate all of the community," Chip said. "We have served people all across the United States and different overseas areas and regions. We are grateful."
The silver lining: many valued vendors have teamed up with Black Kat Salvage II Antique Shop located at 902 Edmond St., in Downtown St. Joseph.
In a press release, Chip said they look forward to this new chapter and encourage all of their friends to visit the Black Kat Salvage II Antique Shop.
"We're devastated by the fact that we've lost our lease, but there's always a silver lining in everything," Chip said.
