The other day I zipped across the Dubuque-Wisconsin Bridge and headed toward Hazel Green, Wisconsin. It had been some time since I'd been to the small village, but once I took the exit to Highway 11, I soon found myself on a familiar road. 

attachment-Screen Shot 2022-07-15 at 1.34.08 PM
Image Credit: Google Maps
loading...

As a kid, I knew this route quite well as it was the way to visit relatives in S.W. Wisconsin. But typically, stopping in Hazel Green was little more than to genuflect at the stop sign before taking a left towards Cuba City.

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

On this day, it struck me to drive one additional block to see what was happening on Main Street. Hazel Green is like most other small towns with a requisite tavern, bank, and convenience store. However, I discovered there's more to the village than meets the eye. 

In 1825, the village was named from the dense growth of American Hazelnut trees near the town site. Today the village is home to approximately 1,200 people.

The first permanent settlement in Wisconsin was in Hazel Green in 1825. In 1831, Lucius Lyon began surveying south of the present-day Hazel Green in southwestern Wisconsin. This village is where all the land to become Wisconsin would be measured. Every property deed in Wisconsin today includes a description based on the Point of Beginning, Hazel Green. 

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

The village has several Bed and Breakfasts and antique shops for history enthusiasts and folks on the hunt for vintage stuff.

While I wasn't in the market for an antique, I couldn't resist investigating the two-storied structure with tons of signs and other interesting wares adorning the building. 

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

Indeed, upon entering the historic home, it was clear that True Vine Antiques and Finds is a treasure hunter's natural habitat. 

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

True Vine Antiques & Finds owner Ron Tallman shares the story behind his historic home and store.

attachment-Radio-3
loading...
attachment-Radio-6
loading...

 

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

Elvis shows up everywhere these days, and his albums live. As a result, the overall collection was relatively large and reasonably priced.

The 5,000 sq. foot store's myriad of rooms are packed full of fun vintage finds, including the motherload of cast iron pans

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Kitchen Wares

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Cassette Tapes and...

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Boom Boxes

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Movie Cameras

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Cool Electronics

attachment-IMG_6552
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

Funky Chicken Clocks

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Pocket Knives

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Knick Knacks

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Nostalgic Toys

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

 

Antique Dolls

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

And History!

Before becoming President, Galena resident Ulysses S. Grant was friends with the home's original owners. He often spent time at the house when out on his sales route.

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

The black frame self-tour helps tell the tale. A sign at the entrance clearly states the best antique is the home itself.

Photo Credit: Keith B.
Photo Credit: Keith B.
loading...

Suppose you're looking for a fun place to fulfill your need for nostalgia; visit and discover True Vine Antiques & Finds at 2105 Main St. in Hazel Green, Wisconsin. It's excellent for that one-of-a-kind find.

True Vine is also on Facebook!

 

attachment-Radio-4
loading...

 

SEE: 30 Toys That Defined the '70s

More From WDBQ-FM