The former collection from Signs of the Times is showing signs of life in a new location.
The Red Barn on Hobson (1002 E Hobson) has officially cut the ribbon and is preparing for its grand opening this week as it unveils a vintage memorabilia collection that would make even the most seasoned collector of nostalgic items drool with envy.
Thankfully, almost everything that’s not bolted to the floor, walls, or ceiling has a price tag.
Proprietor Larry White, the former owner of Sapulpa icon Signs of the Times—now the home of Reed Architecture & Interiors (18 E Hobson)—has built a beautiful apple red metal barn across the street from EMCO Pest Control (yet another venture of White’s) and moved the majority of his collection from the former icon into what’s sure to become another—along with the collections of a few other vendors.
In addition to the neon signs and local memorabilia that’s sure to bring back memories for almost every generation, the store features even more collectibles for all kinds of collectors. Restored and repurposed antique Coca-Cola dispensers are the highlight of one booth, old oil cans with just a hint of rust highlight another. Shiny pedal-cars from yesterday sit on a shelf against the back wall.
Every category of collectible seems to be represented in the store—trains, old signs, old magazines, old Disney, old, well, everything—all of it appearing to be in great shape. The prices aren’t always the cheapest in town, but rarity seems to more than make up for that.
White says that not everything is available for purchase. “The Sapulpa signs won’t be going anywhere,” he said during the Sapulpa Chamber Ribbon-Cutting ceremony on Friday morning. Some of the store’s best features—the neon signs from downtown Sapulpa’s businesses of yesteryear—are here to stay, thank goodness. Even if you’re not in the mood to spend, it’s worth the trip just to stop in and soak up the memories. On the walls, you’ll see signs for O.L. Humes’ Rexall Drug store, Gabe’s Office Supply, and Frankoma Pottery, among others. Take a trip around the store. You’ll surely be back.
The Red Barn on Hobson is open Tuesday – Saturday starting November 2nd, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
