Poehler Destination

Explore A World of Antique and Vintage Treasures at Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall

Antique and vintage enthusiasts are always on the lookout for unique pieces that can add character to their homes and collections. But the reasons why they are drawn to these items are as varied as the pieces they collect. For some, it is about owning things no one else has. Others long for furnishings with character, dimension and craftsmanship that isn’t present in today’s mass-produced pieces. And for many more, the lure is collecting pieces with a history and a story.

Rocky Slaymaker is as knowledgeable about the reasons people shop for these treasures as he is about the history and value of the items themselves.

For 20 years, he’s helped people find the antiques and vintage items they are searching for at Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall at 301 Commercial Street.

“Everybody has something that connects them to what they collect,” said Slaymaker. “It's very personal. That makes it fun. I get to have wonderful conversations with people from all over the world and help them find just the thing they are looking for.”

Slaymaker developed his love of antiques from his mother, Shirley. As a kid, he trailed behind her at garage and estate sales as she built her personal collection and became a dealer and consigner.

He took what she taught him to Los Angeles, where he worked in the movie industry for 16 years as a production assistant, set decorator, swing gang, leadman and assistant director. This work of set creation and world-building was a masterclass in historical periods and the sometimes-minor details that distinguish one period from another.

When Slaymaker returned to Emporia, he brought what he’d learned and many items he’d collected to help his parents, Shirley and Ron Slaymaker, start Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall. Twenty years later, he and his dad are carrying on the vision that his mom Shirley started.

The three-and-a-half-story building has a fascinating history of its own. It originally opened in 1907 as Poehler Mercantile, a wholesale grocery business. Before that, the first Lyon County Courthouse stood on the site.

Poehler’s 15,000-square-foot showroom is a wonderland to explore. It’s filled with everything; from furniture ranging from the 1800s to modern mid-century pieces, Depression glass, fine china, kitchenwares, garden art, vintage clothing, jewelry, books, memorabilia, and more.

The store also has a sports museum containing over 50 years of sports memorabilia like photos, yearbooks and trophies. The museum was created by Coach Ron Slaymaker, head men’s basketball coach at ESU for 27 years and Rocky’s dad.

Visiting Poehler is not just about finding beautiful pieces; it’s also about finding things that reflect your unique interests. If you are looking for an addition to your collection or just want something fun and funky for your home, Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall has something special for everyone.

Poehler Mercantile Antique Mall at 301 Commercial Street is open 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Wednesday through Saturday. Visit poehlerantiquemall.wix.com/Emporia to learn more or follow them on Facebook @poehlerantique or Instagram @ poehlerantiquemall.