Make a Day of It: Explore Historic Dows During Market on Main

 


When you come to the Dows Market on Main, you’re not just shopping local, you’re stepping into a piece of history.

We’re excited to share that many of Dows’ historic sites will be open during market day, giving you the perfect opportunity to turn your visit into a full day of exploration, learning, and small-town charm.

The Dows Mercantile – Vintage & Antique Treasures on Sale

If you love antiques, vintage finds, and one-of-a-kind pieces, you won’t want to miss The Dows Mercantile. They’ll be hosting a huge inventory reduction sale, making it the perfect time to browse and snag something special at a great price. The Dows Mercantile is located directly across the street from the market at 122 E Ellsworth St.

Tiger Museum – Celebrating Dows Pride

Take a walk down memory lane at the Tiger Museum, where you’ll find displays honoring Dows’ sports and music history. It’s a meaningful stop for anyone who loves local stories and community pride. (CLICK HERE if you want to show your Tiger Pride!)

Welcome Center

The depot was the first one built in Wright County in 1896. The Dows Historic Society purchased the building in 1988 and it has since operated as a Welcome Center for our friendly community ever since.

Historic Schoolhouse & Evans One-Room House

Step back in time with visits to the old schoolhouse and the Evans one-room house. These spaces offer a glimpse into what life and education looked like in earlier days—simple, resourceful, and deeply rooted in community.

Dows Library – Books, DVDs & Bargains

The library will be open from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and they’ll have books and DVDs for sale at very affordable prices.

  • If the weather is nice, you’ll find carts set up outside
  • If not, everything will be available indoors

It’s a great chance to stock up on reading material while supporting a local resource. LEARN MORE HERE!

Quasdorf Blacksmith & Wagon Museum – Live Demonstrations

One of the highlights of the day will be at the historic Quasdorf Blacksmith and Wagon Museum.

Watch the full tour here!

Built in 1899 and used continuously until 1990, this incredible space has been preserved and restored by the Dows Historical Society. Inside, you’ll find original tools, machinery, wagon wheels, welding equipment, and the forge itself - many pieces still exactly as they were used by the Quasdorf family.

During market day, you’ll also get something truly special:

Live blacksmithing demonstrations by Fox Hill Forge

Fox Hill Forge specializes in custom blacksmithing and brings the craft to life with live demonstrations. Watching metal shaped by fire and skill is something you don’t see every day - and it’s a powerful way to connect with the past. Find Fox Hill Forge on Facebook by CLICKING HERE.

Watch Fox Hill Forge working this video!

The museum offers both self-guided and guided tours, so you can explore at your own pace or dive deeper into the history.


More Than a Market

Dows Market on Main is about more than shopping... it’s about community, history, and experience.

Spend the morning browsing vendors, then take time to explore everything else our town has to offer. Whether you’re hunting for vintage treasures, learning about local history, or watching a blacksmith at work, there’s something here for everyone.

We can’t wait to see you in Dows, and we hope you make a full day of it.

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