Chester-Newell joins the ‘Buy-Way’
By EMILY SCOTT (escott@reviewonline.com)Article Photos
CHESTER - For the first time, West Virginia will participate in the Lincoln Highway Buy-Way, a yard sale that spans multiple states and hundreds of miles.
David Nurmi, director of the Chester-Newell Chamber of Commerce, said Chester and Newell will play host for the event, in which hundreds of yard sales are held simultaneously in towns along the Lincoln Highway, the first paved road in the county from coast-to-coast, in Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and now West Virginia. The Buy-Way has expanded from 350 sales in its first year to 750 last year and is expected to grow even more in its fourth year.
This year's Buy-Way will be held Aug. 7-9.
"It reminds of us a time when our country was just beginning to grow and expand," said Nurmi, adding the intent is to preserve the history of the Lincoln Highway.
Nurmi said towns in Columbiana County, such as East Liverpool and Lisbon, have participated in the event in the past and will continue to do so this year.
Businesses and residents all along Carolina Avenue will participate in Chester, and Nurmi said anyone who does not have a home or business along the street can still take part, space permitting.
"It's not like your regular old yard sale," said Nurmi, since an emphasis will be placed on collectibles and antiques, as well as other useful household items. For example, Nurmi said no clothes should be sold unless they are period or antique.
Nurmi said there are some collectors drawn to the Buy-Way looking for very specific items and that they will drive hundreds of miles to find them. "Hopefully we'll be able to draw some people into Chester," he said, adding that he hopes those who come to Chester for the Buy-Way will also patron the city's businesses.
Signs will also be placed along the highway to alert and direct drivers to the sale.
Anyone wishing to participate in Chester and Newell can contact Mary Lawrence, owner of River Island Collectibles and organizer of Chester's event, at 304-387-5510 during normal business hours.
