Experience history and community spirit along the first coast-to-coast route in America.
A Journey Through Time
The Lincoln Highway, America’s first transcontinental paved road, stretches from Times Square in New York to Lincoln Park in San Francisco, covering 3,389 miles. This historic route passes through the North Central part of Ohio along its original route and later variations. A total of 241 concrete markers were set by the Boy Scouts in 1928, many of which still stand today.
The Lincoln Highway Buy-Way Yard Sale, an annual event, celebrates this iconic road by hosting one of the largest yard sales in the United States. It takes place annually right here along the original route of the highway which goes through Galion and the later version which goes through Bucyrus.
Event Details
- Dates for 2024: August 8, 9, and 10
- Location: Along the Ohio Lincoln Highway, including towns such as East Liverpool, Hanoverton, Minerva, East Canton, Canton, Kidron, Dalton, Orrville, Mansfield, Galion, and Bucyrus.
- Website: Historic Byway
Purpose and Significance
The Lincoln Highway Buy-Way Yard Sale was established in 2000 to promote tourism and economic growth along the historic route. This event encourages visitors to explore the scenic highway, discover charming small towns, and participate in community-driven yard sales. It commemorates the history of the Lincoln Highway, built in 1913, and its impact on American travel.
Activities and Attractions
Yard Sales Galore
Participants can explore hundreds of individual yard sales, offering a wide variety of items such as antiques, collectibles, household goods, and more. Each sale presents a unique treasure hunt for visitors, with opportunities to find rare and valuable items.
Community Events
Many towns along the route host additional events to enhance the yard sale experience. Look out for local festivals, food vendors, and entertainment that add to the festive atmosphere. These community events provide a great way to experience local culture and hospitality.
Historical Exploration
The Lincoln Highway is rich in history, and the Buy-Way Yard Sale offers numerous opportunities to learn about its heritage. Visitors can explore historical sites and landmarks, gaining insight into the significance of the highway and its role in shaping American travel.
Tips for Participants
Plan Your Route
To make the most of the event, use the Lincoln Highway Buy-Way Yard Sale Travelers Guide, which is distributed a week before the event. This guide will help you plan your stops and ensure you don’t miss key sales and attractions.
Encourage friends and neighbors to set up sales together to attract more visitors. Group sales tend to draw larger crowds, creating a vibrant and bustling atmosphere. Promote your sale through local newspapers and social media to increase visibility. Highlight unique items to attract more shoppers and make your sale stand out.
Be mindful of highway safety laws and ensure that your sale setup does not obstruct traffic or create hazards for shoppers. Safety is a top priority to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Community Impact
The Lincoln Highway Buy-Way Yard Sale has a significant positive impact on local communities:
- Boosting Tourism: The event draws visitors from across the country, benefiting local businesses and promoting regional tourism.
- Encouraging Economic Development: It provides a platform for small businesses and individual sellers to generate income.
- Preserving History: By highlighting the historical significance of the Lincoln Highway, the event fosters a sense of community pride and historical preservation.
For more information and updates, interested participants can visit the official event website and local tourism boards.
