Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Wisconsin Antiques Dealers Association: Preserving Heritage Through Premier Antiques Shows
Founded in 1948, we are the oldest continually functioning state antiques dealers association in America. As a not-for-profit organization, we host two premier antiques shows annually in February and October at the Waukesha County Expo Center. Our mission focuses on preserving Wisconsin's heritage through educational initiatives, public engagement, and grant programs supporting historical preservation. We provide a platform for dealers and collectors to connect while advancing conservation efforts statewide. Our shows feature curated exhibits, diverse merchandise, and community-building events like Friday night fish fries.We maintain partnerships with historical societies and offer grants to support preservation projects. Our organization emphasizes transparency, with clear application processes for funding and public reporting of awarded grants. We prioritize accessibility through free parking and family-friendly programming. Our team collaborates with hotels to provide discounted rates for exhibitors and attendees. We maintain rigorous standards for grant recipients, ensuring funds directly benefit public-use historical preservation projects.
Services
Antiques Shows
Historical Preservation Grants
Dealer Education Programs
Specialty Exhibits
Community Engagement Events
Details
- Year established: 1948
Highlights and features
- We have operated continuously since 1948, maintaining Wisconsin's longest-running antiques show tradition
- Our not-for-profit model directly channels admission proceeds into heritage preservation grants
- We provide transparent grant application processes with clear funding criteria for historical societies
- Our shows combine educational programming with curated exhibits from professional antiques dealers
- We maintain partnerships with Wisconsin historical institutions for collaborative preservation efforts
Services
Antiques Shows
Our biannual antiques shows feature curated collections from professional dealers across Wisconsin and beyond. These events provide educational opportunities through specialty exhibits like our annual Halloween antiques display. Attendees access exclusive merchandise while supporting heritage preservation through admission proceeds.
Historical Grants
We administer competitive grants for Wisconsin historical preservation projects, prioritizing public-use initiatives. Our rigorous application process ensures funds support structural conservation, artifact restoration, and educational programming. Since 1948, we've awarded over $50,000 in preservation grants to qualifying institutions.
Dealer Education
Our organization provides ongoing educational resources for antiques dealers through workshops and networking opportunities. These programs emphasize ethical dealing practices, historical context, and market trends. Educational initiatives help maintain professional standards across Wisconsin's antiques community.
Questions
When are your upcoming antiques shows?
Our next shows occur February 2025 and October 3-4, 2025 at Waukesha County Expo Center.
How do admission proceeds support Wisconsin heritage?
A portion of each ticket funds historical preservation grants awarded to Wisconsin institutions annually.
What types of grants do you offer?
We provide up to $1,000 grants for public-use historical preservation projects, excluding private property improvements.
How can dealers participate in shows?
Visit our website for exhibitor lists, floor plans, and application procedures for booth space.
Are there special exhibits at your shows?
Yes! Our October 2025 show features 'Trick or Treat,' showcasing Halloween antiques from private collections.
Do you offer group discounts or coupons?
Present any Fall 2025 WADA ad for $1 off admission (up to 2 people) at the October show.