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MCDADE — One person's hobby can be everyone's treasure.
A particularly new treasure trove isn't easily found if you're traveling major highways in Bastrop County. However, if you take a turn off U.S. 290 and head to downtown McDade, you'll find a new place to buy antiques and other gems.
McDade Antiques and Marketplace has opened in the city's historical district. The new store has attracted friends, family, the community and beyond.
“Everybody comes in and like those people that were in here just now,” said owner Melba Skubiata in regards to a couple who were going to the Sherwood Forest Faire, “I don't know any of those people.”
McDade's new business stems from a time when Skubiata's eldest daughter moved back home from Palestine.
“She brought all of her household stuff with her and we thought, 'What are we going to do with all this stuff,'” said Skubiata.
As they worked on getting rid of the barrage of belongings, they then began to wonder about looking for more items.
“That's when I thought, well, let's try to sell it in a booth because you can't have a garage sale and expect people to pay prices like this,” said Skubiata. “It just really turned out to be fun.”
She opened that booth in Elgin and maintained it for three years. As she started to look around for other locations, a turn into McDade directed her to her next venture.
“The building is the original grocery store that was here,” she said. “When I walked in here, I thought this would make a real neat antique store.”
The location shortens her drive from her McDade residence as well, meaning she didn't have to drive far to the grand opening April 1.
“It kind of uplifted McDade a little bit,” said Skubiata in regards to increased visitors.
Her friends and family helped in the opening. Her daughter, Amy Skubiata, was hopeful on the impact the new store will have on the community.
“It kind of complements the atmosphere in the small town and it kind of helps get newer people, and that's what I kind of focus on,” said Amy Skubiata. “I want people that are passing through to have that stop on the way to wherever they're going and have a break and to see out of the normal day.”
“And to put McDade on the map,” added her mother.
McDade Antiques and Marketplace is located at 525 Old Highway 20. Hours are 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Thursday through Saturday. In addition to antiques, other items include furniture, quilts, old newspapers and more on consignment.
“I don't want this to consume my life,” said Melba Skubiata. “I want this to be a hobby. I want this to be fun.”
