The Wichita Military Collectors Show!
This show is held twice a year in April and November. I am happy to report that the most recent show had 140 tables of military-related items! This is great news as the show has struggled over the last several years, but is now regaining popularity. Many of the original members of the Wichita Military Collectors Club Inc. have gotten old and passed. They credit their recent renaissance with a new social media campaign effort. They are reaching more younger members who share their passion for militaria collecting.
Left Image: Here’s one of the displays ( an Arms of Bavaria Collection) Right Image: Interesting display of items from the U.S.S. Wichita
Left Image: This display had patches from many of the WWII Kansas Ordnance Plants Right Image: Most of these I did not know existed!
They try to provide something for all facets of the hobby. To drive interest, they attempt to have military vehicles and parts, current and vintage military items, both foreign and US, displays where collectors can display their collections, and finally, reenactors. The show offers a friendly atmosphere where most people know each other. They don’t even use badges to identify the dealers. It is the best show for local collectors as it is close and reasonably priced. Admission is just $5, and an eight-foot table is only $35. My advice for those who have an interest in military collecting is to get out there, bring things that you have questions about, or don’t fit into your collection. This reminds me of an old adage, “if you want to know more about something you own, display it at a show – people will come up and tell you all about it. Sometimes you will find out more than you want to know!”