THE PLACE: Santee Swap Meet
Sometimes one man's trash is just another man's trash.
That's the risk you take going to the Santee Swap Meet. But among all the odds and ends that probably should have gone straight to the Dumpster, there are a few treasures. And even if you don't find that elusive prize, it's only a $1 investment. That's pretty cheap for a chance to experience the thrill of the hunt.
The Santee Swap Meet has a little bit of everything. Vendors sell antiques, arts and crafts, produce, flowers, electronics, clothes, new items and anything they have lying around the garage. Located at the Santee Drive-In, the swap meet has a community feel, with many vendors and bargain shoppers returning every weekend.
Vendor Don Lightfoot has been there every weekend for four months. Among the miscellaneous items he has for sale are some unique lamps that he makes himself. Two lamps on display are made from a shovel and a saddle. They have a Western look to them and would make a perfect conversation piece for a very eclectic decorating scheme.
Lightfoot has made more than 400 lamps of this kind from found objects such as pistols, roller skates, frying pans and other recycled items. He was forced to leave most of his lamps behind after moving from Texas after a divorce. Currently homeless, Lightfoot hopes the swap meet will help him make a fresh start.
“I'm trying to get back on my feet,” he said.
Lightfoot is one of many vendors selling original arts-and-crafts items. Alejandro Mayoral of Spring Valley creates animals out of metal and stones that he sells at the swap meet. Among his handmade creations are birds with bobbing heads, dogs and a small band of mariachi players.
Mayoral said he spends a lot of time on each piece to ensure quality and detail. “It's not easy to make,” he said, adding that “you don't want to buy the cheaper ones. I guarantee my price.”
As with any swap meet, flea market, garage sale or thrift store, you do have to take the good with the bad. But any swap meet aficionado will tell you that's all part of the allure. And there are some true gems waiting to be discovered.
“It's a treasure hunt,” vendor Michelle Sanchez said.
LOCATION: 10990 Woodside Ave N. Take Riverford Road exit off state Route 67
HOURS: 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday
COST: $1
– Heather Quinn
