“This brings me back to my childhood”: Magpie Market Days embraces Christmas, small businesses

MARION, Ill. (KBSI) – McClure, Ill., native Brenda Webb said this of her collection of vintage Christmas items that she displays and sells at events like Magpie Market Days.

“This brings me back to my childhood when we went to my grandma’s house on Christmas, and it was just the best day ever.” 

She said there is no telling where she might find her next treasure. 

“I look all year round, and I look everywhere I go,” she said. “You name it, thrift stores, auctions, estate sales, yard sales sometimes.” 

Webb retired as a registered nurse in 2013 and has taken to her business, Fugitive Farmgirl, full-time ever since. 

“It’s my fun retirement job,” she said.

Webb said the Christmas candles she sells candles are similar to the ones her grandma used to put out as decorations. 

“These are not hers,” she said if the candles. “Hers are at home in a special box in the closet, but these always remind me of that special grandma.” 

Emily Kerley, another vendor at Magpie Market Days, owns Milkmaid Creations and Antiques. She said one of the great things about events like this one is how well they cater to small businesses. 

“It’s a great place to place for someone to hit several small businesses in one location and very quickly, in like one or two days,” she said.