History

Milwaukee’s largest rummage sale and indoor flea market at Wisconsin State Fair Park

THE LONG STORY

The tradition began in 1970 as the “Art, Craft, and Antique Fair,” founded by John and Jan Wilke. Six years later, it was purchased by Wally and Judy Rasner who invited exhibitors to sell an eclectic assortment of items, both new and used. The event would resemble a giant rummage sale, and the Rasners called it “Rummage O Rama.”

In a city of practical people, Rummage-O-Rama was practically an instant hit, held in the sprawling North and South Exhibit Halls at Wisconsin State Fair Park.

In 2002, the halls were removed to make room for the Wisconsin Expo Center. This beautiful new building would house many great events, but was cost-prohibitive for Southeast Wisconsin’s largest rummage sale.

The Rasners allowed Rummage-O-Rama to fall dormant, until interest piqued in a new generation.

FROM ONE GENERATION TO ANOTHER

“In an uncertain economy, and with venues like eBay and Craigslist bringing mainstream the concept of purchasing from non-retail outlets, it seemed to me that ‘Rummage-O-Rama’ could still be a success.”

-Tim Gill

“We are thrilled that somebody is showing an honest interest in carrying on the ‘Rummage-O-Rama’ tradition. ‘Rummage-A-Rama!’ is still a unique variety store that, especially in these challenging economic times, can still offer the biggest selection for the most reachable prices.

“Now, we are happy to pass it along to Tim Gill, with our blessings for every success.”

-Wally and Judy Rasner

Early in 2009, event concessionaire and entrepreneur Tim Gill tried his hand at reviving Rummage-O-Rama. After learning that the business name was still active, Gill obtained the Rasners’ permission to give this legendary rummage sale another go.

After changing the “o” to an “a”--a tweak that Gill attributed to the only available web domain at the time--and the addition of an official exclamation point, Rummage-O-Rama became “Rummage-A-Rama!” and was birthed into a new generation.

Partnering with Hunger Task Force, Gill was amazed by the response to his April show from patrons and exhibitors alike. The following fall, he made a legitimate purchase of the “Rummage-O-Rama” name and reputation. October of 2009 was the start of Gill’s first five-show season as the event’s owner and promoter.

...and what you see here is the rest of the story.