The Lincoln Highway was America’s first cross-country automobile roadway. Constructed in 1913, it spanned over 3,000 miles, connecting Times Square in New York City and Lincoln Park in San Francisco. The 241-mile section that passed through Ohio was adjusted and realigned multiple times, but the final version adopted in 1928 is known as the Ohio Lincoln Highway Historic Byway.
Today, the byway is not only notable for historic reasons. Each August, the Buy-Way Yard Sale (August 8-10) takes place for one weekend along the route, which passes through north central Ohio.
This event is unlike any other. Over 1,000 sellers line the areas along the byway with their wares, and travelers can stop to explore each sale. Nearby businesses also offer special sales for Buy-Way shoppers.
Any individual who owns property along the byway is welcome to organize a sale of their own, be it a yard, garage, antique, or another type of sale. If someone who wants to sell does not live right off the route, most nearby areas offer a communal location, such as the Wooster Fairgrounds in Wayne County, where residents can set up a booth or tent at no extra cost.
The Lincoln Highway originally ran through Mansfield along West Fourth Street. Owners of businesses along Park Avenue would change the road signs, misleading travelers toward their own establishments instead. They eventually got their wish—in the route’s final version, it ran down Park Avenue. A replica concrete path marker post now stands on Park Avenue East, near the courthouse. Elsewhere in Ohio, some original markers can still be found today.
More than 100 years ago, the Lincoln Highway successfully connected America like never before and paved the way for most modern roadways. The Buy-Way Yard Sale is the perfect time to finally hunt down the obscure or vintage items you’ve been searching for, but it’s also a great opportunity to enjoy scenic views and delve into the history of the Lincoln Highway and the Richland County area itself.
By Destination Mansfield – Richland County Communications Intern – Amanda Ehrmantraut