WESTLAKE: Westlake Historical Society hosts annual craft and antique show for community

The show, the second after the COVID-19 pandemic, is an opportunity for vendors across the state and beyond to showcase historical artifacts.

“It is one of the longest running shows of its kind on the West Side of Cleveland,” said Dave Pfister, member of the Westlake Historical Society Board of Directors and chairman for the craft, vintage and antique show.

Pfister added there are about 1,100 people that come to the show each year, not just from Northeast Ohio, but from Toledo and Pennsylvania as well. About 40 vendors are expected to be at this year’s event.

One of the most notable visuals that will be showcased is the first fire engine bought for the city of Dover, now Westlake, in 1937. It is a staple of the show.

“This historical society was able to find it, pay for the restoration of it, and now the Westlake Fire Department works with us to store it and maintain it,” Pfister said, adding that it is fully operational, and a member of the fire department handles driving it around.

The Clague House has much historical significance in Westlake, notably carrying the same name as the popular Clague Park. Pfister said that the Clague family moved to the area in 1829, and the children of Dover settler Robert Clague built the house as a gift for their mother. The project was completed in 1876.

The craft, vintage and antique show itself has been operating since 1970, and according to Lysa Stanton, president of the Westlake Historical Society, it started as a fundraiser for the organization.

“It’s an opportunity for everyone in the community to come over, spend four bucks admission, it’s very minimal, but you’re supporting the historical society, and you’re giving back to your community,” Stanton said.

She added that a couple of the most popular rooms available for viewing are the military room and the children’s room.

There will be various food and beverage options available at the event, including a snackbar, cold water and drinks and a popcorn machine.

The show will be happening from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday, June 4 at 1371 Clague Rd.

Contact this reporter at egallagher@westlifenews.com or 440-670-9650